VALDOSTA — Valdosta State University (VSU) is making strides toward fully restoring its network and university systems after discovering a significant cybersecurity intrusion.

On Dec. 28, VSU Cybersecurity detected a network intrusion that prompted immediate containment protocols, the university said on Tuesday. These measures included isolating the campus from the internet, resulting in the shutdown of all network services, including Wi-Fi and university systems.

Since the incident, the university’s Information Technology (IT) and Cybersecurity teams, the University System of Georgia (USG) Cybersecurity, and an independent security firm have been working to repair the damage. Efforts are focused on securing sensitive data and ensuring systems are safe for full operation.

According to Robbyn W DeSpain, VSU’s director of strategic communications, the comprehensive scan of the network, servers, and workstations is ongoing, and service restoration is proceeding systematically.

“The team remains focused on ensuring your information is secure and services are fully operational,” DeSpain said in a statement from the University. “Analysis continues regarding evidence of sensitive data exposure.”

While Blazeview, VSU’s online learning platform, has been made available via remote connection, most campus computers and systems remain offline until further notice. University IT approval is required before these systems are reconnected.

Spring semester classes will start as planned on Jan. 13. However, face-to-face classes will operate without access to classroom technology. Online courses remain unaffected, and students can access Blazeview using the designated remote link.

Faculty, staff, and student employees will not have access to office computers, computer labs, or other campus workstations until they are cleared for use by the IT department.