The GNWT has shared an update regarding the recent cyber security incident involving PowerSchool.
PowerSchool is an information management system that is used by many different schools across the NWT ever since 2012. Two weeks ago, the news was shared that a data breach had been detected within the system that impacted information for the Beaufort Delta Division Education Council, Dehcho Divisional Education Council, South Slave Divisional Education Council, Yellowknife Catholic Schools, and Yellowknife Education District No. 1.
Through the investigation into this matter, the GNWT has been able to confirm that additional school districts have been affected by the breach. The additional districts include the Dettah District Education Authority and the Ndilǫ District Education Authority.
With these additional Districts, it is estimated that the total number of individuals who have been affected by this breach is around 35,082. This includes 32,734 current and former students, and 2,348 current and former teachers or other staff members. Those who have been impacted will be notified by PowerSchool.
In response to this incident, PowerSchool is offering two years of complimentary identity protection and credit monitoring services to all affected individuals. The GNWT is working closely with PowerSchool and education bodies across the Territory to try and keep the affected individuals safe and provide them with updates.