A data breach involving the Alabama Department of Education’s PowerSchool portal has impacted school districts statewide and nationwide, raising security concerns among parents.
Hackers gained unauthorized access to names and addresses, though officials confirmed that Social Security numbers were not compromised. The Alabama Department of Education stated that the breach was not a targeted attack and that the hackers were international.
PowerSchool, the portal provider, immediately secured the system, contacted law enforcement, and assured users that the issue has been contained.
“PowerSchool stated that the incident has been contained, with no evidence of malware or ongoing unauthorized activity, and PowerSchool continues normal operations,†said Dr. Eric G. Mackey, Alabama State Superintendent of Education.
The breach has left many parents unsettled. Sharonda Ware, whose nephew attends Madison City Schools, said the situation is concerning.
“It makes me very concerned. I know what it’s like to have your credit impacted unfairly by third parties,†she said, recalling a previous incident when her personal information was stolen through a government website.
Ware said Madison City Schools notified parents about the breach through a letter, and PowerSchool has committed to providing credit monitoring and identity protection services to those affected.
Not all parents are alarmed by the breach. Dwight Ware, Sharonda’s husband, said he does not want their nephew to worry about the situation.
“I did not have a conversation with my student. I want him to focus on his schoolwork and be prepared when it comes to college,†he said.
Officials are encouraging families to remain vigilant and monitor any unusual activity related to their personal information. Further updates on the breach will be provided as more details become available.
