New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU) encountered a severe cyberattack that disrupted its operations and forced the cancellation of classes for an extended period. Vice President David Lepre disclosed that the attack, identified as a ransomware incident, targeted the university’s authentication portal, critical for accessing online classes and essential platforms. The disruption prompted NMHU to shut down its campus WiFi network as a precautionary measure to contain the attack’s spread and protect sensitive data.
Despite the challenges posed by the cyberattack, NMHU took proactive steps to ensure continuity in essential services, such as Human Resources and Payroll. Lepre elaborated on the implementation of a temporary computer center at the main Las Vegas campus and dedicated phone lines to facilitate timesheet submissions and paycheck distribution. However, the university remains uncertain about the timeline for resolving the ransomware attack, underscoring the ongoing efforts to restore normalcy and bolster cybersecurity measures.
Lepre acknowledged the invaluable support received from state authorities, including Raja Sambandam, the acting Cabinet Secretary for the Department of Information Technology, and Stephanie Rodriguez, Secretary of the New Mexico Higher Education Department. Their collaboration with NMHU reflects a coordinated response to address the security breach and mitigate its impact on academic operations. Additionally, Lepre highlighted NMHU’s prior investments in cybersecurity following a significant cyber incident in 2019, which enabled the institution to implement enhanced preventive measures and encryption protocols.
As NMHU continues to navigate the aftermath of the cyberattack, Lepre emphasized the university’s commitment to safeguarding its digital infrastructure and ensuring the resilience of its systems against future threats. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges posed by cyber threats in the education sector and underscores the importance of proactive cybersecurity strategies to protect sensitive information and maintain uninterrupted academic services.
