From Seattletimes · · 1m 40s
Hackers steal California students' data in massive breach
Hackers stole personal data of millions of California students in a breach dating back to 2006.
In brief
Hackers stole personal data of millions of California students in a breach dating back to 2006. Hackers accessed student records from California's education system, affecting millions of students and former students. Originally reported by Seattletimes.
Data breach affects millions
Hackers stole names, addresses, and disability records of millions of current and former california public school students.
Breach dates back to 2006
The compromised data affects students from 2006 enrollments through current 5.7 million public school students.
ETS data compromised
Educational Testing Service or ETS, which provides testing services for california public schools, was breached.
Information exposed
Student grade level, date of birth, school, district, gender, race, ethnicity, language, country of origin, english learner status, and disability records were exposed.
No financial data exposed
Social security numbers, driver’s license numbers, passport numbers, financial accounts, credit cards, and passwords were not exposed.
Hack discovered in 2026
ETS discovered the hack on sept 25, 2.
Breach timeline
An unauthorized party used a compromised login credential to access the site between may 22 and september 18, 2026.
Cybersecurity expert concerns
A cybersecurity expert warned that one compromised login credential could lead to months of access to millions of student records.
ETS security response
ETS implemented enhanced monitoring, strengthened access controls, and third-party security reviews to address the breach.
Identity theft protection
Affected former students are eligible for 24 months of free identity protection and identity restoration services.
Parent warnings
Parents should be cautious of unexpected emails, phone calls, or text messages related to the incident.
The short version
Hackers accessed student records from California's education system, affecting millions of students and former students.
