Richmond Public Schools remain offline amid cybersecurity investigation

Richmond Public Schools (RPS) students and staff have been operating without internet access for multiple days following a cybersecurity incident, according to reports from NBC12 and WTVR CBS 6. The incident has disrupted several operational systems, requiring teachers to adjust classroom routines and rely on non-digital methods of instruction.

Superintendent Jason Kamras stated that the school division is working closely with forensic and cybersecurity experts to determine the scope of the incident and whether any personal data was compromised. He emphasized a commitment to transparency throughout the investigation, as reported by NBC12.

Despite the network outage, RPS schools remain open and safe for in-person learning, with operational changes implemented to enhance campus security. These changes include limiting non-staff entry to caregivers and restricting student release to authorized adults in the PowerSchool system, according to WTVR CBS 6.

Communication lines such as front office phone lines and the ParentSquare platform remain operational, and many critical services have been shifted to cloud-based platforms expected to be unaffected by the incident, NBC12 reported.

There have been unconfirmed reports of unusual financial activity affecting some staff members, with RPS collaborating with local and federal law enforcement to fully understand the incident. The district has pledged to notify any individuals impacted by potential data breaches and to offer free credit monitoring services if necessary, according to WTVR CBS 6.

Cybersecurity experts note that attacks on school systems are becoming increasingly common, underscoring the importance of precautionary measures such as resetting passwords and enabling two-factor authentication, as advised by NBC12's social media expert.

The investigation is ongoing, and RPS officials continue working to restore full network functionality while maintaining open communication with families and staff.