More News

PowerSchool data breach affects Cumberland County Schools

By Staff Report, posted 1 year ago

Cumberland County Schools (CCS) is currently addressing a cybersecurity incident involving their former PowerSchool Student Information System (SIS). As part of their transition to Infinite Campus this school year, Cumberland County Schools moved to a new student information system. However, PowerSchool still retains access to certain legacy data.

 On Dec. 28, 2024, PowerSchool became aware of a breach that began on Dec.19, 2024, due to unauthorized access caused by compromised credentials from a PowerSchool contract employee. This breach is part of a larger, global PowerSchool data breach.

The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) was notified of the breach on Jan. 7, 2025, and Cumberland County Schools was formally informed over the weekend. CCS was notified that the district’s data was impacted, specifically, their teacher and student data.

PowerSchool has confirmed that the breach has been contained and that the compromised data has been destroyed. The company is working with law enforcement to monitor for any potential exposure of data. According to CCS,  it is important to note that neither Cumberland County Schools nor NCDPI could have prevented this incident, as they do not have administrative access to the system’s maintenance tunnel.

“Our district is working closely with NCDPI and PowerSchool to notify impacted individuals once the full scope of the breach is confirmed. We remain committed to protecting the data of our students and staff and will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available,” said the district in a released statement. 

Ico insights

INSIGHTS

SPONSORS' CONTENT

In The Current Issue

Unlocking innovations: Emerging Technology Institute hosts USSOCOM Technical Experimentation

This is the fourth year that ETI has hosted the event, and in years past Freeman has seen a host of innovative technology, including various drone types and programming, robotic dogs, 3D printed houses, and airspace scanners. Photo provided by USSOCO


Barrier-free financial education: Money Box Academy expands its reach through support from local government and nonprofit organizations

Crystal McLean (left) with Scott Embry (right). Money Box Academy received a $10,000 grant from United Way of Cumberland County’s Youth Growth Stock Trust. Photos provided by Crystal McLean.The Youth Growth Stock Trust Committee, administered by the


The story of Hubb’s Farm: From family heritage to local landmark

What started as a seasonal corn maze has evolved into a year-round operation. The spring, summer and autumn seasons all bring unique activities for families. Photos provided by Tammy Peterson.Hubb’s Farm is a premier agritourism destination located i