Southampton School Closes Four Days After Ransomware Attack

St Anne's School in Southampton closes after ransomware attack; IT breach contained, no data compromised yet. Investigation underway.

By Content Team

Mar 29, 2026

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St Anne's Catholic School in Southampton shut down for four days after hackers launched a ransomware attack on its IT systems. The cyber criminals used malicious software that threatens to delete files unless a ransom is paid.

Headteacher Julian Waterfield messaged parents Sunday about the breach, saying the IT team immediately contained the attack and reported it to authorities including police, the Information Commissioner's Office, and the National Cyber Security Centre.

The school plans to reopen Friday, with Waterfield stating there's currently no evidence that student or staff data was compromised. However, he warned parents they'll be contacted immediately if that changes.

Both the ICO and NCSC confirmed they're providing support and guidance to the school during the investigation.

Source: BBC

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