2024 IT Service Disruption:
Frequently Asked Questions
The latest information on the IT service disruptions linked to the 2024 cybersecurity incident is below.
Advance to Specific Question Category
Incident Background
Jan. 23 Mandatory eID Password Reset
Timeframe for Disruption
Guidance for All K-Staters
Where to Direct Additional Questions
Incident Background
What has happened?
K-State is currently experiencing a disruption to certain network systems. Upon detection, university IT took immediate steps to investigate the disruption, isolating the areas of concern. We've confirmed that these disruptions are the result of a recent cybersecurity incident.
When did this happen?
K-State IT staff discovered the disruption on January 14. In response, the department took immediate steps to contain the incident, which included taking certain systems offline and initiating an investigation.
Jan. 23 Mandatory Password Reset
Why is the university requiring a password reset on Jan. 23, 2024?
As part of the university's ongoing commitment to information security, we are taking this step out of an abundance of caution to protect our systems and your information. All students, faculty and staff will need to reset their password in order to regain access to centralized IT services, including Webmail, Canvas, HRIS and more.
Are we being asked to reset our passwords because of an additional cybersecurity incident?
No. Upon detection of a disruption to some network systems the week of Jan. 14, university IT took immediate steps to investigate the disruption, isolating the areas of concern. This password reset is an intentional step that we are taking out of an abundance of caution to protect our systems and your information. We are continuing to investigate the incident and will provide updates at k-state.edu/update.
I can't access my Webmail, Canvas, or other platforms. Where do I go for help?
Visit the password reset page for detailed instructions on how to reset your eID password. If you need additional help, please contact the IT Service Desk.
I was able to successfully reset my password, but some of the systems I typically use/access are now not functioning. What should I do?
We understand the importance of maintaining business and academic continuty during this time.
- Students: We do not anticipate you will experience any noticeable changes upon reentry to K-State systems. That said, if you experience an outage related to a class, start by inquiring with your professor or by contacting the IT Service Desk. If you an experience an outage related to a campus job, inquire with your supervisor directly.
- Faculty/Staff: If you notice you are unable to access specific systems after the password reset, it is likely that those systems are not centrally managed and, therefore, have not been brought back online following the reset. Please report any outages you experience to your supervisor, and supervisors should report these instances to their dean or vice president. We do anticipate some system outages that may appear as new issues to users, but we assure you much work is already underway to re-route any processes derived utilizing these departmentally owned or distributed systems into centrally owned systems. This is a necessary step forward in our ongoing efforts, and we appreciate your patience while we work through this transition.
Timeframe for Disruption
When will K-State's network systems be fully operational?
The investigation is still ongoing, so we do not yet have a definitive timeframe. Using similar cybersecurity incidents at other institutions across the country as a baseline, we recognize that full operation is unlikely to be restored to impacted systems within a number of days. Plainly stated, this will take some time. K-State IT is working diligently with vendor partners to evaluate systems and bring them back online as quickly and safely as possible.
When will you have more information?
The investigation is ongoing and will take time to complete. K-State is committed to doing everything it can to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation and to take steps to ensure the security of our network. As updates are available, they will be shared with the campus at k-state.edu/update.
Guidance for All K-Staters
What should I be doing to assist in this situation?
If you notice anything suspicious as you engage with university technology, students should reach out to the IT service desk. Faculty and staff should reach out to their departmental IT points of contact. Everyone should heed cybersecurity best practices.
Is there anything else I should be on the lookout for?
It is possible that phishing attempts will increase during this time. Stay vigilant, and follow best practices to avoid phishing attempts.
How do I stay informed?
Visit k-state.edu/update for the latest information.
Additional Questions
I have more questions regarding the cybersecurity incident I would like answered, who can I speak with?
K-State has deployed numerous resources to do everything we can to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation and to take steps to ensure our network systems can be safely and securely brought back online. This work will take time to complete. When updates are available, they will be shared with the university community at k-state.edu/update.
