United Methodist New England Conference Reports $1.6 Million Cyber Theft

The New England Conference of The United Methodist Church is investigating a significant cybersecurity breach that resulted in the theft of over $1.6 million. According to Bishop Thomas Bickerton, the incident occurred on August 5 when perpetrators posing as bank representatives gained access to the regional body’s online banking system. The unauthorized individuals subsequently executed multiple wire transfers to various international accounts.

Bishop Bickerton confirmed that the conference is collaborating with the FBI, the Secret Service, and legal counsel to address the crime. While approximately $200,000 of the stolen funds have been recovered, the investigation remains ongoing. The bishop noted that other organizations were targeted by similar schemes during the same period.

Despite the financial loss, church leadership has expressed a commitment to maintaining ministry operations and meeting all financial obligations. Reflecting on the incident, Bishop Bickerton drew parallels to the biblical account of Nehemiah, offering prayers for guidance as the conference reviews its internal financial policies and security procedures to prevent future occurrences.