Ransomware and School Districts

Ransomware is infecting institutions throughout the country, including many here in Oklahoma. School districts are being hit. Lest you think it won’t affect your small or rural school, think again. Ransomware does not discriminate by size or geographic location. Because the data possessed by schools is so sensitive and so critical to operations, it has become a particularly profitable target for the hackers. From a legal standpoint, as well as a practical standpoint, the loss of your data as a school district could cause any number of headaches.

In the event your data is held for ransom, and before you take action (or choose not to take action), our IT Director, Ben Parker, strongly suggests you have a reputable and knowledgeable IT professional evaluate your situation. There may be a decryption key available, depending upon which strain of ransomware is in your system. Or, in some cases, it may actually be better financially and/or practically for you to go the route of paying the tab. The important thing is to not act hastily or without considerable information regarding your options.

If you haven’t been hacked, have you taken proactive steps to ensure your school’s data doesn’t get kidnapped? If not, please take the time to look into your systems and protections. If need be, consult with a professional IT firm experienced in ransomware prevention. A good starting point for information and other resources might be the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, which has released a helpful public service announcement. The link may be found here: FBI Ransomware PSA.