The White House held its first-ever cybersecurity summit on ransomware attacks targeting U.S. schools. At least 48 districts were hit by ransomware attacks this year, with data stolen in all but 10 cases. Russian-speaking foreign-based gangs are typically responsible for the attacks. The attacks have resulted in the exposure of sensitive student data, including medical records and sexual assault reports. The Government Accountability Office reported that over 1.2 million students were affected in 2020 alone, with lost learning ranging from three days to three weeks. Limited federal funds currently exist to combat the attacks, but measures announced at the summit include tailored security assessments and grants from technology providers.

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