URGENT UPDATE: Loyola College in Watsonia, Melbourne, has issued a critical warning to parents after students began circulating sensitive, hacked information found on the dark web. The college, targeted by a foreign cyber-crime group last month, has confirmed that private data related to both staff and students has been compromised.
In a letter to parents dated August 30, Principal Alison Leutchford disclosed that the breach involved the theft of vital records, including identity documents, tax information, and even court orders. The hacking group, identified as Interlock, claimed to have accessed sensitive medical and financial records of students, raising serious concerns about privacy and security.
Authorities report that shortly after the breach, some students began actively searching for the stolen data on the dark web, an area of the internet notorious for hosting illegal activities. Principal Leutchford stated, “We are aware that some students have attempted to search for, and access, information on the dark web related to the breach. Screenshots of this information have been circulated between students.”
The school has taken immediate action by hiring cybersecurity experts to assess the situation, implementing additional security measures, and resetting passwords for all staff, parents, and students. However, the growing curiosity among students poses a significant risk, prompting the school to urge parents to discuss the dangers of engaging with such illicit content.
Leutchford emphasized the importance of parental intervention, advising, “While we understand that young people are curious about what has happened, we ask that you speak with your children immediately to discourage any further activity of this type.”
This incident highlights the urgent need for awareness about the risks associated with the dark web, especially for young individuals who may not fully comprehend the implications of accessing and sharing stolen information. As the investigation continues, Loyola College remains committed to protecting its community and safeguarding sensitive data.
Parents are encouraged to monitor their children’s online activities and discuss the potential dangers of the dark web. The school is expected to provide further updates as new information becomes available.
This developing story underscores the critical importance of cybersecurity in educational institutions and the need for vigilance in a digitally connected world.
