Fort Smith City Services Face Persistent Card Payment Issues Following Network Security Event
The city of Fort Smith continues to experience card payment issues more than two weeks after a network security event disrupted portions of its computer systems. The payment processing system at the city's landfill remains offline, although credit and debit card payments are currently being accepted at City Hall. According to Josh Buchfink, Fort Smith director of communications, the city is coordinating its response with governmental partners, including federal law enforcement and cybersecurity specialists, as part of an ongoing investigation. The security event, which began on August 16, disrupted some city services and computer systems, though 911 dispatch and emergency response remained fully operational. Some city employees have been affected, with some working from home or being sent home due to system unavailability, though they are still being compensated.