Cyberattack Disrupts Ridgefield Public Schools Network, Investigation Underway

RIDGEFIELD, CT — Ridgefield Public Schools officials announced that on July 24, their cybersecurity systems detected an attack aimed at encrypting files on the district’s computer network.

The network was immediately taken offline to prevent further harm and allow for an investigation, which is now ongoing

District officials confirmed that this incident was indeed a ransomware event, involving malicious software used to lock digital files with demands for payment in exchange for a decryption key. Law enforcement agencies have been notified and are assisting with the investigation, according to a post on the RPS website.

As the investigation continues, officials emphasized the complexity and time-intensive nature of cybersecurity incidents. It remains unclear if student, parent, or employee data stored on the network was compromised or accessed during the attack. The district is working to assess the potential impact and will inform the community as soon as details are available.

"This is a methodical process that must be conducted in a safe and secure manner. Our services will be restored in a staggered manner as systems are cleared for use. We will provide updates on services that have been restored when available," RPS officials said.

In response to concerns about employee financial data, officials indicated that if forensic analysis reveals such information has been compromised, the district will offer credit protection services. Notifications to residents affected by any data breach will follow Connecticut state law.

Those experiencing issues with student registration can directly contact District Registrar Brigid Clancy at bclancy@ridgefieldps.net or by calling 203-894-5550 ext. 1106. Sports registration for the 2025-26 school year is expected to be unaffected, as the district anticipates network restoration prior to registration periods.

Due to limited network access, Ridgefield High School students enrolled in Advanced Placement (AP) and UCONN summer coursework have been granted an extension until Monday, September 8, to submit assignments. Temporary copies of summer assignments have been provided online, though some materials remain inaccessible. The district will reassess deadlines as network services are restored.

Officials committed to restoring district systems safely and methodically, with updates provided regularly on the Ridgefield Public Schools website.