Cyberattack forces public schools in Jackson, Hillsdale counties to remain closed Tuesday

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - All public schools in Jackson and Hillsdale counties will remain closed Tuesday due to a cyberattack.

The schools were initially closed Monday. It is unknown how long the closure will last.

Update: Schools in Jackson, Hillsdale counties to reopen Thursday following cyberattack

The Jackson Intermediate School District (ISD) sent an email to staff and said it is a victim of a ransomware attack. Jackson ISD provides technology services for many districts in Jackson and Hillsdale counties.

“Immediately upon discovering suspicious activity, we proactively took systems offline in order to contain the incident,” wrote Superintendent Kevin Oxley. “We have engaged external cybersecurity advisors to investigate and assist in the safe restoration of our systems. We have also notified law enforcement.”

The full letter can be read below.

The attack affects critical operating systems.

Schools are encouraging students not to use their school computers or access the school’s internet. Jackson ISD does not know how long the systems will be down.

Concord Community School District said they took their systems offline in order to contain the incident. Due to the system disruption, Concord schools were also closed Monday and will remain closed Tuesday.

Related: Survey: Cyberattacks targeting schools more often

You can check the status of your child’s school on the school closing page.

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