West Lothian Schools targeted in suspected ransomware attack

No data breach detected so far

Schools across West Lothian, Scotland, are grappling with a suspected criminal ransomware cyberattack that has impacted the council’s education network.

The incident, which came to light on Tuesday, May 6th, has prompted a swift response from West Lothian Council, which is now working alongside Police Scotland and the Scottish Government to investigate and resolve the situation.

In a group email dispatched to parents, the council confirmed the cyberattack and stated, “This is a live criminal investigation, and we are working with all relevant external agencies.”

Crucially, a council spokesperson said, “There is no evidence that any personal or sensitive data has been accessed at this stage.”

Ransomware, as defined by the National Cyber Security Centre, is a type of malicious software that blocks access to a device or encrypts its files, with perpetrators typically demanding a ransom payment for decryption.

Despite the disruption to the education network, West Lothian Council has activated contingency plans to ensure educational continuity.

“All West Lothian Council schools will be open as normal this week, and SQA examinations will not be affected,” the spokesperson assured.

Schools are expected to directly inform parents of any alterations to their usual contact arrangements.

The council also clarified that, at present, “There is no evidence at this time, that the council’s corporate and public access networks are affected by the attack.”

This suggests the attack is currently contained within the education network, which serves 13 secondary schools, 69 primary schools, and 61 nurseries in the area.

This incident in West Lothian occurs against a backdrop of increasing cyber threats. Recent ransomware attacks have caused significant disruption for major UK retailers such as Marks & Spencer, the Co-op, and Harrods.

It is estimated that cyberattacks have cost UK companies a staggering £44 billion in lost revenue over the past five years, with 52 percent of firms reportedly affected.

Investigations into the West Lothian schools attack are ongoing as authorities work to understand the full extent of the breach and restore normal operations to the education network.