Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) has reported that it was the target of a ransomware attack that occurred in mid-August, raising concerns over the security of district data. According to an email sent to families, unauthorized access was gained to district systems, and sensitive data stored on the network drives could have been compromised. Fortunately, CPS confirmed that no funds were stolen during this incident, providing some reassurance to parents and students.
The district has taken immediate action by notifying law enforcement and collaborating with cybersecurity experts to thoroughly investigate the breach. CPS is committed to protecting the privacy and security of its students, staff, and district data, emphasizing the importance of transparency during such critical situations. The district’s ongoing efforts reflect a proactive stance in addressing cybersecurity challenges, which have become increasingly common among educational institutions in recent years.
Recent trends show that cyberattacks on school districts are on the rise. For instance, the Deer Park Community City School District issued a warning to parents about a phishing scam at the start of this school year, while last year, the West Clermont School District suffered a significant loss of $1.7 million due to a social engineering scam. These incidents highlight the pressing need for educational institutions to enhance their cybersecurity measures and stay vigilant against emerging threats.
In response to the recent attack, CPS has urged parents and students to be cautious and avoid opening suspicious emails or clicking on unfamiliar links. The district has established a family technology support center to assist families with any concerns regarding technology and security. As CPS implements several security measures to prevent future unauthorized access, the district remains dedicated to fostering a safe and secure environment for all students and staff.
