Austin ISD is currently addressing intermittent network lag and connectivity issues caused by targeted cyber attacks known as Distributed Denial of Service attacks. Our technology teams are working non-stop to ensure our students and staff stay safe and connected. The Situation: DDoS Attacks Recently, Austin ISD has been the target of several DDoS attacks. These are cyber attacks specifically designed to disrupt our network and make it difficult for students and staff to get online. A DDoS attack is like a coordinated digital "bottleneck." During an attack, bad actors use fake data to flood our internet connection, which causes the lag users on our network are experiencing. Recent news reports and threat intelligence indicate an increase in cyber threats across the country due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Some groups are using these attacks to target schools and public services to create distractions or cause frustration. Our Action Plan While these attacks are unpredictable, our entire technology team, including our Network and Cybersecurity teams, are working around the clock to defend our systems. Here’s how we’re responding. - Partnering with Experts: We are working directly with the Texas Information Sharing and Analysis Organization (TX-ISAO), our internet service providers, and several other organizations to identify and block malicious traffic before it reaches our schools. - Real-Time Adjustments: As soon as an attack begins, our security and network teams make technical adjustments to reroute traffic and restore performance as quickly as possible. We know that having a reliable network is essential, especially as we approach testing season. Our IT team is committed to keeping our systems running smoothly and we will continue to update you as we learn more. Interrupciones en la red y nuestra respuesta de seguridad cibernética El Austin ISD está abordando actualmente retrasos intermitentes en la