Hacker Tries Breaking Into School Computer Network: Ridgewood Superintendent

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — The Ridgewood Schools Superintendent said Wednesday that staff and students in the district were being asked to update their login passwords after a hacker tried to break into their network Tuesday.

"Early on Tuesday morning, November 5th, our cybersecurity systems detected and alerted our IT team to unauthorized access attempts by an outside entity," wrote Superintendent Mark Schwarz. "...The attacker was able to view certain directory information, including encrypted password data (password hashes). While these passwords are securely encrypted and cannot be used to log in to any systems, we believe a proactive district-wide password reset is appropriate to ensure continued security."

He said the district believed that no personal information belonging to staff or students was accessed.

He wished the students and staff a "pleasant extended weekend." Schools are closed Thursday and Friday for NJEA Teachers' Convention.

His letter is below.

Superintendent's Letter

Dear RPS Families,

I am reaching out to share important information regarding a recent incident involving our district’s computer network. Early on Tuesday morning, November 5th, our cybersecurity systems detected and alerted our IT team to unauthorized access attempts by an outside entity.

Here are the key points regarding the incident:

Immediate Response and Prevention: Thanks to our cybersecurity system and the IT team’s prompt action, the attacker was unable to access our servers or disrupt any operations within the district.

Protection of Personal Information: At this time, we have no evidence that any personal information belonging to staff or students was accessed.

Limited Data Exposure: The attacker was able to view certain directory information, including encrypted password data (password hashes). While these passwords are securely encrypted and cannot be used to log in to any systems, we believe a proactive district-wide password reset is appropriate to ensure continued security.

Next Steps – Password Reset: All district users, including 6-12 students, will receive separate instructions to update their passwords starting Monday. New passwords will be generated and distributed by the district for elementary students. This step will help maintain a strong security posture across all district accounts.

We are actively working with the appropriate authorities as the investigation continues, and we will share additional updates as needed. If you have any questions regarding this or other topics, please send them to info@rpsnj.us.

Best wishes for a pleasant extended weekend.

Sincerely,

Mark Schwarz

Superintendent of Ridgewood Public Schools