Ransomware attack strikes Franklin County Public Schools

Franklin County Public Schools, a local school district comprised of 16 schools serving nearly 8,500 students from the communities within Franklin County, suffered a ransomware attack on Monday, forcing the authorities to shut down certain school systems.

As per a statement from Bernice Cobbs, the superintendent of schools, classes were canceled on Monday for an assessment of on-campus security. On Tuesday, both students and teachers resumed their regular classes.

The authorities initiated an internal investigation, and they sought the assistance of third-party experts to aid in the efforts to resolve the situation. Cobbs mentioned that the attack did not impact grades as they are stored in a separate system managed by a third party. She further stated that all critical systems are now functioning normally.

Franklin County Public Schools is presently collaborating with local and national law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI and Virginia State Police, throughout the ongoing proceedings. Cobbs said they would gain further information in the upcoming days regarding the possibility of any private information being leaked. If any information is stolen, they will inform the affected individuals and offer complimentary credit monitoring services.