SFA Online Systems Attacked, Internet Connections Now Shut Down

According to officials at Stephen F. Austin State University, it looks like the university's online systems are the victim of a cyber attack.  As a result, many employees at SFA were sent home from work early on Monday while authorities and technicians try to work through the problem.

No statement has been issued concerning where the alleged cyber attack may have originated, but school officials did release this statement through the SFA Twitter account:

SFA’s online systems appear to have been the target of a cyberattack, likely between Saturday evening and Monday morning. Upon discovery, we severed connection to the internet to prevent further attack. We are working with authorities and UT System colleagues to determine the extent of compromise and to return to normal operations. We do not yet have a timeline. As our ITS colleagues assess status, they will begin to restore systems and eventually internet access. Because official SFA online resources are not available, please watch for official updates on our social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Essential personnel must report to campus. Other employees should work with their supervisors for instructions. Supervisors may choose to have employees work on campus without access to systems or to work from home, or use appropriate leave. Safety, dining and housing are prioritized for our students, summer camp attendees, faculty and staff. Individual faculty members can use their own discretion about holding classes in person or providing alternative activities. Work with department chairs and school and college offices to share plans and receive additional instructions.