Security Alert, Mailchimp Issue, and Tech Hours Update

Security Alert, Mailchimp Issue, and Tech Hours Update

Date Sent: January 20, 2026

lacey@macdnet.org

Good Afternoon everyone,

Thank you to those who promptly notified MACD about the recent suspicious email activity, as well as the unrelated Mailchimp notification many of you received over the weekend. Your quick reporting helps us address issues efficiently and keep our systems secure.

We want to share an update on both situations and clarify next steps.

1. Phishing Email Reported (littlebeavercd@macdnet.org)
   We received reports of a phishing email sent from littlebeavercd@macdnet.org. We have confirmed with Little Beaver Conservation District that this email account was compromised. MACD is currently working directly with Little Beaver CD to resolve the issue and strengthen their email security.

As a reminder for everyone, this is a great time to review and update your passwords.

Password update tips:

Update passwords every 3–6 months

Use a unique password for each account

Create strong passwords with a mix of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols

Avoid reusing old passwords

Consider using a password manager to securely store credentials

2. Mailchimp Error – “You Are Now Unsubscribed” Email
   Many of you received an automated message stating that you had been removed from the TMC + MACD Membership mailing list. We also received this email and can confirm it was sent in error.

We are actively working with Mailchimp to correct this issue and to resubscribe affected users where possible. Once this is resolved, we will follow up with clear instructions on how to confirm you are subscribed to your desired MACD mailing lists.

Important clarifications moving forward. There is no threat to district websites or MACD’s multisite servers. Even if you did not interact with the phishing email, regularly updating your passwords is still recommended.

New MACD Tech Hours

In an effort to continue improving support as districts expand into the digital space, MACD Communications will now observe Tech Hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays during MACD operating hours. Establishing dedicated Tech Hours allows us to provide more timely, consistent, and focused website assistance to districts statewide.

These hours will be dedicated to:

Bringing new Conservation District websites onto the multisite network

Resolving website issues as they arise *Urgent matters will be handled as needed

Continuing to improve overall multisite functionality and support

By centralizing technical support during these dedicated times, MACD can better ensure that all districts receive clear communication, faster response times, and more effective long-term website support.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work through these issues. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have questions or concerns.