‘Possible data incident’ disrupts internet, other systems at Hanover County Public Schools

HANOVER COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- A "possible data incident" disrupted the internet and other systems at Hanover County Public Schools (HCPS) on Thursday, according to the school division.

On Thursday, March 12, Hanover County Public Schools shared on its website that a "possible data incident" had impacted the school system, disrupting internet and other services. School officials did not clarify the nature of the incident.

As of reporting, internet service and multiple HCPS systems were not available across the school division. It is not yet known when service will return to normal.

Despite this, school officials said teaching and learning will continue without technology for at least the next week. Parents who need to reach a staff member were asked to contact their students' schools by phone.

Although students' Chromebooks are on a separate Google domain and do not appear to be impacted, as of reporting, the school system said they will not be used temporarily as an added precaution.

The school division said it was working with cybersecurity professionals, outside legal counsel and other state and federal officials to fix and investigate the issues.

School officials reportedly continue to follow experts' guidance regarding the timing and content of communications about the incident, among other best practices.

The investigation and work to repair the issues are ongoing, according to HCPS.

Although the school system said it is "very limited" in what it is able to share, school officials will reportedly provide additional information as it becomes available and is permitted to be shared by experts.

"While we work to mitigate this incident, we appreciate your patience and understanding in recognition of the disruption to our normal operations," the school division said.