Saskatchewan Polytechnic was the target of a cybersecurity attack this past weekend, affecting its systems and prompting all campuses to suspend classes until at least Nov. 4.
This includes all online and in-person courses, while Sask Polytech works to minimize the impact and identify the severity of the security breach.
The institute is investigating the incident, said a press release, and IT services are working with outside experts to “restore systems in order of priority,” beginning with making the online environment available once again. Law enforcement is also involved in the investigation.
Sask Polytech students and employees are still able to safely access limited services from personal devices, including email, Zoom, Office 365 and video streaming.
The institute does not feel as though the security breach compromised any personal information.
All of Sask Polytech’s campuses, including Moose Jaw, are affected by the suspension of classes.
Sask Polytech promised more information is to come on Nov. 2.
UPDATE:
Sask Polytech confirmed that the investigation into Sunday’s security breach continues, and IT Services is working to help secure the institution’s systems.
“We are making progress on safely restoring operating platforms and online services. I want to thank our in-house IT security system and all employees who worked tirelessly over the weekend with outside experts and third-party suppliers to minimize the impact of the cybersecurity incident,” said Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO, in a press release. “Saskatchewan Polytechnic wants to assure students, their families, employees and our industry partners, we will keep you informed. Our first priority is to restore the online learning environment for students.”
Some services have now been restored for students and staff, including Outlook email and calendar, Microsoft Office Suite, Zoom and Kaltura.
Employees have also been instructed on how to install adaptive, next-generation antivirus and endpoint detection and response software, for future protection.
Sask Polytech once again stated it does not believe any personal information has been compromised.
More details will be shared as the investigation and service resumption continues.
