Fairfax County Schools Employee Data Leaked On Dark Web: Report

Vienna VA

10 October, 2020

11:48 AM

Description

FALLS CHURCH, VA — Several hundred names and social security numbers belonging to Fairfax County Public Schools employees were shared on the dark web after hackers breached the school system's computer network in September, according to a report by NBC Washington. The leak is part of a cyberattack orchestrated by criminal hacker group, Maze, which last month posted several stolen school documents for download, including letters to parents discussing disciplinary actions with students. At the time, the hackers claimed to have more information and threatened to release it unless they were paid a ransom, NBC reported. The newly leaked information originated from a spreadsheet dated in 2014. Reports say it lists several hundred employee names, Social Security numbers and details about their health insurance. In a statement to NBC, Fairfax County school officials said the hack is under investigation. Meanwhile, the school system implemented several enhanced cybersecurity measures and continues to evaluate what additional steps officials can take. "We are investigating the incident and have retained leading outside security experts to determine the nature and scope of the incident. We are working closely with the FBI and Virginia State Police and supporting their own investigations to bring the criminals to justice," the statement read. "We want to be clear that while our investigation progresses, our focus will remain on delivering a safe, productive virtual learning environment to all of our students. We are working around the clock to identify the information that was taken and will notify impacted individuals as appropriate."