Content

Ransomware forces Richmond Community Schools to close

Students attending Richmond Community Schools received a belated Christmas present when a ransomware attack delayed the re-opening of school from its holiday break.

School officials were likely not as happy, as the attackers have demanded a $10,000 ransom payable in bitcoin, according to NBC25 News.

The Michigan district was hit on Dec. 27, with district officials informing parents and students on Dec. 31 that the planned Jan. 2 school re-opening would be pushed back.

"Over the holiday break, several district servers were 'attacked' by a Ransomware virus. This virus has affected critical operating systems in the district, including but not limited to heating, telephones, copiers and classroom technology," the district posted on its Facebook page.

The attack shut down several systems, including telephones, copiers, classroom technology and the heating system. The district does not believe any student information was compromised and said its IT department was working on restoring all affected systems.

Get daily email updates

SC Media's daily must-read of the most current and pressing daily news

By clicking the Subscribe button below, you agree to SC Media Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.