‘It’s concerning.’ Parents in Freehold Township troubled by ‘cybersecurity incident’
School was back in session Tuesday for eight of Freehold Township’s public schools after being closed Monday following what officials are calling a “cybersecurity incident.”
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Parents in Freehold Township still have concerns following what they were told was a “cybersecurity incident” at the school district. The incident led to the closure of eight schools Monday, including Marshall Erickson Elementary.
“It’s concerning to see if my kid’s personal information was compromised," said Freehold Township parent Christine Saltillo.
Steve Buffett, another parent, says he understands the cybersecurity incident could have been ransom related. He said hospitals had something similar happen not too long ago.
“I guess anybody is vulnerable when it comes to that,” he said. “I assume they got it resolved or got it to a point that they can let the kids in, but I’m sure safety was the first concern and I really kind of respect that.”
Parents were first notified about the incident Sunday night. Specific details about the incident were not provided.
School Superintendent Neal Dickstein wrote in a letter to parents that the initial phase of restoring all the computer systems is complete. He also stated that students should leave their school-issued Chromebooks at home on Tuesday.
“As part of our precautions to ensure the incident is contained, access to technology will be limited,” he wrote, adding that the only way to communicate with the schools will be by phone. “There is currently no email communication available."
Tina Roginski says parents are not allowed to go through emails.
“So what’s the difference today from yesterday?” she asked.
There is still no word on the extent of the cybersecurity issue. The FBI told News 12 that it is aware of the incident but could not provide any additional details.
Before- and after-school activities were canceled Tuesday at Marshall Erickson Elementary, but the YMCA before- and after-school care programs will be held.
