Hacker. Getty Images
As reported by CNN
In the United Kingdom, hackers stole data from more than 8,000 children from the Kido network of kindergartens. According to CNN, among the stolen data are photos, addresses, and names, and part of the information was posted on the dark web, with a ransom demanded. The London Metropolitan Police confirmed that on September 25 they received a report of a cyberattack with a ransom demand on an organization located in the capital. The investigation is being led by the cybercrime unit, but there have been no arrests yet. The United Kingdom’s National Cyber Security Centre called the incident “deeply troubling.”
Cybercriminals attack anyone if they think they can profit. And attacking those who care for children is especially vile.
Response from Law Enforcement and Assessment of the Risk
Law enforcement acted quickly in response to the incident. The investigation is led by the cybercrime unit; arrests have not yet been made, but investigative actions are ongoing. The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre stressed the seriousness of the case and described the situation as “deeply troubling,” calling for stronger data protection in educational institutions.
These are children – their personal data should have no value. But we are ready to do whatever it takes to protect our children’s privacy.
Cybersecurity experts warn that the leak could be used as a tool for harassment, intimidation, or attacks on families with vulnerable children. According to the organization Kido itself, the network of kindergartens spans several countries and uses modern approaches to early childhood education, underscoring the scale of personal data vulnerabilities in the educational sector.
In light of this, experts urge educational institutions to strengthen security measures, update software, restrict access to private data, and educate parents about online privacy rules for children to reduce the risk of repeated breaches.
Summary and Ways to Improve Cybersecurity
This incident clearly demonstrates how critically important robust data-protection systems are in educational institutions. The authorities and law enforcement continue to work to uncover the circumstances and hold those responsible to account, and educational institutions should promptly implement monitoring tools, regular updates, and privacy training programs for parents and staff.
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