Breaking News: OakWood Targeted in Coordinated Ransomware Extortion Attack

Ottawa-based OakWood Designers & Builders is currently the victim of a calculated ransomware extortion scheme, triggering a formal police investigation. The attack, which began on Reddit, has spread across platforms including Google Reviews and even involved fraudulent physical lawn signs, all used to disseminate false claims—most notably regarding a fabricated non-disclosure agreement (NDA).

In a bold move to support the ongoing investigation, OakWood is offering a $25,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the individuals responsible for this cyber-extortion campaign.
To qualify for the reward, the information must first be submitted to OakWood and their solicitors before being relayed to law enforcement. It must be instrumental in securing a conviction, and eligibility is subject to specific terms and conditions listed at the end of this release.

The extortion attempt appears to be spearheaded by an Ottawa-based rival contractor, who allegedly used pseudonymous online accounts to amplify misinformation and incite others to join the smear campaign. Cybersecurity forensic investigators, armed with advanced artificial intelligence (AI) tools, are working to trace these accounts to their real identities. Several false reviews and Reddit posts have already been successfully removed.
This incident is not isolated. It reflects a growing trend wherein prominent companies face coordinated digital blackmail efforts. These attacks often rely on fake one-star Google Reviews and false narratives on Reddit to undermine the reputations of successful businesses.
OakWood has firmly refused to meet the attackers’ financial demands, which allegedly involve multiple payments exceeding $10,000. In response to heightened threats—including more negative online content and the planting of counterfeit yard signs—CEO John Liptak emphasized the company’s confidence in using AI and surveillance technologies to uncover the perpetrators’ identities.
The company is leveraging The Liptak Group’s in-house legal team to prepare legal action, reinforcing OakWood’s commitment to defending its name.

Patricia Liptak-Satov, COO of OakWood, acknowledged that while some clients might be misled by headline-grabbing tactics, most of their high-end clientele see through the scheme. “Our clients recognize this scheme for what it is,” she said, noting that the economic strain on smaller contractors may be driving such desperate actions.

John Liptak added, “Being the leading design-build firm in Ottawa naturally draws attention. Our history, financial strength, and trust with clients speak for themselves.”

Unlike many companies that suffer in silence, OakWood has chosen a transparent public stance. By openly addressing the attack, OakWood hopes to highlight the seriousness of cyber-extortion and encourage community support and vigilance.

The investigation is expected to extend over several months, leveraging both AI and surveillance footage. OakWood is confident that these technologies will increase accountability and lead to meaningful consequences for those hiding behind internet anonymity.

Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact OakWood or Ottawa Police Services directly. OakWood also extended its thanks to the City of Ottawa and Police Services for their assistance in reviewing surveillance footage.

• Specified Reddit posts
• Fake Google Reviews
• Fraudulent OakWood lawn signs

1. Information must be provided to OakWood and its solicitors first, then to law enforcement.
2. The tip must be deemed credible and instrumental in securing an arrest and conviction.
3. Payment will only be made upon final conviction.
4. Eligibility excludes anyone legally barred from receiving compensation.

OakWood reserves full discretion over the administration, modification, or termination of this offer. The offer is void where prohibited by law.