Flagstaff school district grapples with cyber security attack, keeps campuses closed

A cyber security attack affecting the Flagstaff Unified School District forced officials to close all campuses again Friday.

The closure, so far only Thursday and Friday, was needed to allow the district to respond to the attack, according to a message on the district's website.

District spokesman Zachary Fountain told the Associated Press that officials discovered powerful malware involving a ransomware attack in the district's servers during routine operations Wednesday.

Ransomware typically denotes a demand for payment in exchange for access to locked computers, the AP reported. Fountain said the district had to sever school sites' internet connections.

"Progress was made today in securing critical FUSD systems, but unfortunately, work will need to continue through the weekend to ensure that students can return to school on Monday," the message on the district's website stated.

The FACTS, childcare centers and FUSD preschool were closed Friday as well.

The district is home to more than 9,600 students and 15 comprehensive school sites, according to the district website.

"FUSD understands this decision impacts families and the community. We appreciate your patience as we work through this situation," the message said.