Cyber-Attack Forces Closure of Schools in US Pacific Northwest
A recent cyber-attack has wreaked havoc on Highline Public Schools in the US Pacific Northwest, leading to the closure of all 34 schools in the district for at least two days. With over 17,500 students and 2,000 staff affected, the closure has disrupted the start of a new school year for many families.
On Sunday, the district announced the cyber-attack, prompting an immediate shutdown of all schools on Monday. The closure also resulted in the cancellation of meetings, athletics, and the first day of kindergarten for this year’s intake. The following day, the district extended the closure to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Authorities detected unauthorized activity on the school’s technology systems, prompting them to isolate critical systems and collaborate with third-party, state, and federal partners to restore and test their systems. Despite the inconvenience caused by the closure, student safety remains the top priority for Highline Public Schools.
With district-issued computers and laptops deemed unsafe to use, staff have been advised to refrain from using them as a precautionary measure. The network has been disconnected from the internet, limiting access to essential applications necessary for the smooth operation of schools. However, staff can still communicate via Office 365 and district-provided cellphones.
Although no theft of personal data has been reported, the district has lost access to crucial systems, including one that manages school transport. This setback highlights the vulnerability of educational institutions to cyber-attacks, especially at the beginning of a new academic year.
Rising Threat of Cyber-Attacks in Educational Institutions
Schools around the world are increasingly becoming targets of cyber-attacks, with ransomware attacks on the rise. These attacks often occur at critical times, such as the start of a new school year, to pressure institutions into quick payouts.
Security experts emphasize the importance of proactive measures to safeguard against cyber threats. Implementing regular network patches and multi-factor authentication can significantly reduce the risk of a successful cyber-attack.
As educational institutions continue to face cybersecurity challenges, it is crucial for schools to prioritize cyber health and implement robust security measures to protect their sensitive data and ensure uninterrupted operations.