Fairfax Schools Investigate Ransomware Attacks In First Week

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — The first week of virtual learning didn't end without some problems for Virginia's largest school district. Fairfax County Public Schools said Friday it was investigating ransomware attacks in coordination with the FBI.

According to an initial statement from the school district, ransomware had been placed on some FCPS technology systems. Officials believe cyber criminals connected to dozens of other ransomware attacks on school systems may have also targeted FCPS.

The school district later clarified that the issue did not disrupt virtual learning during the first week. FCPS, the FBI and cybersecurity consultants are looking into "the nature, scope and extent of any possible data compromise."

"At this time, our investigation of the issue is ongoing and we are working diligently to determine the impact of this incident on FCPS data," reads theinitial statement from the school district. "We have retained leading security experts to help us determine the nature and scope of the incident and recover from the situation. FCPS is committed to protecting the information of our students, our staff, and their families."

Students and staff can continue to use devices for school-related activities unless otherwise notified. If the investigation determines a computer needs technical attention, the affected individual will be notified.

The school district plans to work with law enforcement to ensure prosecution of the cyber criminals involved.

FCPS wasn't the only school district with issues during the first week in the virtual format. According to a report by WTOP, Loudoun County Public Schools found explicit images showing up in virtual classrooms as well as students using racial slurs. Arlington County Public Schools had technical challenges on the first day, leading many students unable to sign on.