Elías Querejeta Zine Eskola: A Unique Film School Targeted by Lockbit2 Ransomware

Introduction

Elías Querejeta Zine Eskola (EQZE), an esteemed international center dedicated to the intellectual and practical exploration of cinema, has recently fallen victim to the Lockbit2 ransomware group. Situated within the Tabakalera International Centre for Contemporary Culture in Gipuzkoa, Spain, and in collaboration with the UPV/EHU, EQZE has been a beacon of innovation in cinema education since its inception in 2017. The institution prides itself on a holistic approach to filmmaking, seamlessly integrating research, experimental practice, and a pedagogical philosophy that blurs the lines between professional and amateur, as well as between cinema and other artistic disciplines.

EQZE's Educational Philosophy and Programs

At the heart of EQZE's mission is the ambition to cultivate filmmakers who possess a nuanced understanding of cinema's past, present, and future. This is achieved through three specialized programs: Film Preservation Studies, Film Curating Studies, and Filmmaking Studies. Each program is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to the cinematic discourse, ensuring the legacy and evolution of film as an art form.

The Lockbit2 Ransomware Attack

The cyberattack on EQZE by the Lockbit2 ransomware group is indicative of a larger pattern of targeted ransomware incidents across various sectors, with education, government, and healthcare being particularly vulnerable in 2022. The average ransom demand for such attacks has soared to $812,360, highlighting the lucrative nature of this cybercrime. Furthermore, statistics reveal that 36% of organizations that acquiesce to ransom demands become repeat targets, underscoring the persistent threat posed by groups like Lockbit2. Known for its double-extortion tactics, Lockbit2 has a notorious track record of attacking prominent organizations worldwide, thereby amplifying the urgency for enhanced cybersecurity defenses.

Implications and Continuing Resilience

The ransomware assault on EQZE underscores the critical importance of robust cybersecurity measures within the educational sector and beyond. Such attacks not only result in significant financial losses but also disrupt the educational and creative processes that are central to institutions like EQZE. Despite these challenges, EQZE remains a pioneering force in film education, committed to nurturing a deep, life-affirming connection to cinema.

Sources

• Elías Querejeta Zine Eskola - EQZE. Retrieved April 10, 2024, from https://www.zine-eskola.eus/en/home
• Ransomware Tracker 2024: Recent Ransomware Attacks - Spin.AI. Retrieved April 10, 2024, from https://spin.ai/resources/ransomware-tracker/