Billericay School in Essex has been forced to close due to a significant cyber attack that occurred during the half-term holiday.
Description
Described as a “significant cyber malware attack” [3], the incident has left staff locked out of their systems due to a complex encryption [2], resulting in a critical incident being declared [1]. The attack compromised the school’s IT system [1], making it inaccessible despite having industry standard security measures in place [1]. As a result [2], the school will be closed to students in Years 7 to 9 and Year 12 on Monday [2], with remote learning platforms being utilized [2]. Year 10 students on work experience placements should attend as scheduled [2], while those due to attend school will return on Tuesday [2]. Teaching staff are making alternative preparations for classes without access to resources stored on the school system [1]. Public exams and revision classes for Years 11, 12 [2], and 13 will proceed as normal [2]. Students eligible for free school meals can collect packed lunches from the main school reception [1] [2]. IT support staff are working to resolve the issue [3], with updates expected next week [3]. The headteacher has assured parents that efforts are being made to ensure the school can operate safely [2]. It is currently unknown if the attacker accessed data of parents and pupils or the aim of the attack and the perpetrator [3]. The school plans to resume normal classes on June 4 [1], with updates to be provided next week [1].
Conclusion
The cyber attack on Billericay School has had significant impacts on operations, with staff and students facing disruptions. Mitigations such as remote learning platforms and alternative class preparations are being implemented. The future implications of the attack, including data security concerns and the need for enhanced IT measures, are being considered as the school works towards resuming normal operations.
References
[1] https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/uk-school-close-cyberattack/
[2] https://uk.news.yahoo.com/essex-school-unable-open-first-150924033.html
[3] https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/24358186.billericay-school-hit-critcial-cyber-attack/
