PowerSchool, a preeminent U.S.-based education technology provider, has commenced informing students, educators, and other impacted individuals in the wake of a significant data breach that transpired in December 2024.
This security incident, which exposed sensitive personal data, stands out as one of the most notable cyber breaches to affect the educational sphere in recent times.
The breach transpired as malevolent actors gained illicit entry into PowerSchool’s client assistance platform through pilfered credentials.
This enabled them to extract information from the corporation’s Student Information System (SIS), a widely utilized system across North America for managing student records, academic performance, and attendance.
Data Exposed in the Breach
The compromised data comprises names, locations, Social Security numbers (SSNs), medical details, and educational records. Despite PowerSchool serving in excess of 60 million students globally, the total number of directly impacted individuals remains uncertain.
Nevertheless, cyber criminals allege that they absconded with personal details pertaining to approximately 62.4 million students and 9.5 million educators.
PowerSchool has initiated the process of informing impacted persons and regulatory bodies in adherence to legal obligations. In the state of Maine alone, it was confirmed that over 33,000 residents fell victim to the breach.
The enterprise is furnishing two years of complimentary credit monitoring and identity protection services to all impacted parties, irrespective of the involvement of their SSNs. This action is aimed at mitigating the likelihood of risks like identity theft and financial fraud.
PowerSchool’s official declaration underscored its unwavering dedication to transparency and assistance for the impacted communities. “We hold a deep regard for the students, educators, and families we cater to and are fully devoted to aiding them,” expressed a spokesperson on behalf of the company.
The organization has enlisted the services of external cybersecurity specialists to probe the incident and reinforce its security protocols.
The article PowerSchool Commences Student Notifications Post Enormous Breach was originally published on Cyber Security News.