St. Thomas University Suffers Ransomware Attack by Lockbit2

Victim Profile

St. Thomas University, a Catholic institution located in Miami, Florida, has recently fallen victim to a ransomware attack perpetrated by the group Lockbit2, as disclosed on the group's dark web leak site. The university is renowned for its dedication to fostering academic and professional excellence, aiming to prepare students to be ethical leaders within the global community. The Gus Machado College of Business and St. Thomas Law are pivotal in this mission, focusing on educating future global leaders and lawyers skilled in navigating and resolving the complexities of modern society.

Size and Vulnerabilities

While specific details regarding the size of St. Thomas University remain undisclosed, the Education sector, in general, has experienced a noticeable uptick in ransomware attacks. Since December 2022, at least eight colleges and universities in North America have reported such incidents. This trend underscores a broader vulnerability within the sector, characterized by a reluctance to openly discuss ransomware attacks, potentially due to the fear of reputational damage.

Mitigation Strategies

In response to the growing threat of cyberattacks, St. Thomas University has implemented several proactive measures. Among these is a Ransomware Awareness Training Program, designed to educate and prepare the university community to effectively respond to and prevent ransomware incidents. Furthermore, the university is committed to cultivating a workforce that is well-equipped to defend against the increasingly sophisticated landscape of cyber threats, including ransomware attacks and data breaches.

Sources

• St. Thomas University - Catholic University in Miami, FL
• Outside Consultant: What Steps Should Business Leaders Take to Counter Ransomware and Other Cyberattacks? - Harvard Business Review
• Universities and Colleges Cope Silently with Ransomware Attacks - Inside Higher Ed
• Top 6 Emerging Trends in Cyber Security for 2019 - Forbes
• St. Thomas University Ransomware Awareness Training Program in USA - St. Thomas University Cyber Security Certificate
• Building a Workforce Ready to Defend Against Cyberthreats - Newsroom - St. Thomas University Newsroom