Cyber Attack Targets Edinburgh Schools, Student Passwords Reset Amid Exam Season

Edinburgh schools have been hit by a cyber attack, leading to a major disruption just as students prepare for their exams. Edinburgh Council reported unusual email activity on its schools and early years IT network on Friday, May 9, prompting immediate action.

As a precaution, the council reset all passwords across the network, including those used by students. This unexpected move has left many pupils unable to access online revision resources such as Microsoft Teams and OneNote.

To help students regain access to their accounts, schools will open on Saturday, May 10, from 10:15 a.m. to 12 noon. During this time, staff will provide new passwords to students.

A council spokesperson said: "On the afternoon of Friday May 9, we noticed some unusual e-mail activity on our schools and early years IT network. As a precaution, we have had to make the difficult decision to immediately reset all passwords across this network, including those of our students/learners."

The spokesperson acknowledged that this would affect students studying for exams over the weekend, but stressed that it was a necessary step to protect the network.

This incident follows a separate cyber attack earlier this week on schools in West Lothian, which is now the subject of a criminal investigation. That attack is believed to be a ransomware incident, where malicious software locks users out of their systems until a ransom is paid.

Cybercrime, including phishing and ransomware attacks, is becoming increasingly common. Criminals use tactics like fake emails and malicious links to steal data or gain control of systems. Recent attacks on companies like Co-op and Marks & Spencer have also disrupted business operations and supply chains.

Authorities are urging organizations and individuals to stay alert and follow cybersecurity best practices to avoid falling victim to such attacks.