Adrian Johnson
TLDR:
Authorities are investigating a cyber attack on the Alabama State Department of Education, which disrupted services and potentially compromised student and employee data. The attack was interrupted before full access was gained, and additional cybersecurity protocols have been implemented. The department has taken steps to secure data and is working with law enforcement to monitor the situation.
Full Article:
State and federal authorities are investigating a cyber attack and data breach on the Alabama State Department of Education’s systems. The attack, which occurred on June 17, was interrupted before full access was gained, but some data and services were breached and disrupted. Authorities, including the FBI, are working to determine the extent of the compromise, which may include student and employee data.
The State Superintendent, Dr. Eric Mackey, advises parents and employees to monitor their credit and assume that their data may have been compromised. The department is working with law enforcement and experts to monitor the situation and ensure the security of the systems. Services have been restored with additional cybersecurity measures in place.
The Alabama State Department of Education released a statement expressing disappointment at the breach and the decision not to negotiate with hackers. A landing page has been created to update the public on the investigation, and relevant parties will be notified once the extent of the compromise is determined.
In the meantime, the department has taken steps to secure data and is keeping details confidential due to the ongoing investigation. The website will be temporarily down for updates, and questions can be directed to a designated email address. The department is committed to protecting the data of students and employees and ensuring the integrity of the education system.
