The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) have announced it was the victim of a “cyber crime” which affected a number of its systems.
Following the cyber attack, an extortion group demanded £450,000 in bitcoin or it would release confidential details on the dark web. A spokesperson confirmed that some staff data had been accessed as international ransomware group Rhysida claimed to be selling the leak.
The University, which has campuses in Paisley, Ayr, Dumfries and Blantyre, said in a statement it was working to resolve the situation. A spokesperson said, “All appropriate steps continue to be taken to manage the situation. The incident remains an ongoing criminal investigation and we continue to work closely with the relevant authorities, such as Police Scotland, the National Cyber Security Centre and the Scottish Government, who are providing support and advice.”
“Working alongside these agencies, we are following a controlled process to work towards a resolution. We have been briefing colleagues and students since the start of this incident and have advised colleagues that some staff data has been accessed.
“Staff continue to be contacted directly and provided with information and support.
“Our priority remains to ensure our University community and partners continue to be informed and supported at all times, while we work with law enforcement agencies as part of the ongoing criminal investigation.”
