Positive Steps Made towards Restoring Access Following Cyber Attack

A spokesperson for Education Authority (EA) said:

“EA continues to engage with the C2K system provider, Capita, to minimise the impact on staff and pupils, following a recent cyber-attack.

“We are making positive progress towards restoring access to the schools’ C2K system.

"EA teams, along with the service provider Capita and colleagues in schools, have worked around the clock to rapidly develop and test a safe and secure solution.

"We have started to roll this out in schools, with initial priority given to post primary schools and pupils in exam years.

"Work will continue over the weekend and Easter period to restore access across the estate. Details of arrangements will be communicated to pupils by their school as soon as possible.

“We apologise for the unavoidable disruption, but would reassure users, this essential security measure was taken to maintain the integrity of the system and safety of all users.

"EA would like to thank schools and partners for their support as we continue monitor progress over coming days.

“We will continue to keep schools, parents/carers and pupils updated via EA website Education Authority and our social media channels - Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.

FAQs for Schools and Parents/Carers

What happened?

There has been a cyber attack on the C2K system used by schools and pupils across Northern Ireland.

The system is not currently accessible to users. This was an essential step to maintain the integrity and security of the system and the safety of all users whilst we investigate further.

What are we doing to resolve this?

The Education Authority is working closely with Capita, cyber forensic experts, Department of Education and other partners to resolve the situation as quickly and securely as possible.

Teams are working around the clock to rapidly develop and test a safe and secure solution. Together with schools we are already beginning to roll this out in schools, with priority being given to post-primary schools and pupils in examination years.

This work will continue over the Easter break.

When will the C2K system be back online?

We understand how important it is to restore access as quickly as possible, particularly for pupils at critical points in the academic year. This must be balanced with ensuring the system is secure.

We are not yet in a position to confirm a specific timeline; however, we are working closely with schools and Capita to ensure the service is restored as soon as possible.

Schools will engage directly with pupils regarding their arrangements.

Who do schools contact if they have any questions?

For urgent C2k access issues, schools should contact the C2k Service Desk - 0800 0931 541. Updates will be posted on EA’s website Education Authority and our social media channels.

Has any personal data been compromised?

The investigation is at an early stage and it cannot yet be confirmed if any personal data has been affected. We are treating this incident very seriously and we are liaising with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) as part of our response.