RPS data breach: Former students at risk after dark web leak

RPS didn't immediately respond to Axios' questions about how many people were affected, how far back the compromised records date, or whether hackers demanded a ransom.

The latest: RPS is expanding free identity monitoring to former students and employees after hackers claimed to have accessed their personal information, too — and not just that of current students, staff and contractors.

• The district said Wednesday affected systems contained Social Security numbers, addresses, driver's license numbers, health insurance details and other medical information.
• But it hasn't confirmed which records were exposed.

Catch up quick: The Oct. 21 attack began with a message on district computers, where hackers threatened to publish stolen information within 72 hours.

• It disrupted internet access, classroom instruction and college application.

Meanwhile: The FBI, Virginia State Police and federal cybersecurity officials are assisting with the investigation as RPS rebuilds its network, restores data from backups and works on new security policies.

Zoom out: Schools nationwide are facing similar threats. Vanderbilt University this week urged students and faculty to shut down university devices amid a separate cyberattack.

What's next: Current and former students can enroll in free Experian monitoring through Feb. 26.

• A new call center opened Thursday to help people enroll. It's available weekdays, 9am-9pm, at 877-753-3334.