NEWTOWN --Newtown’s public schools website was hacked in the middle of the night according to acting Superintendent Lorrie Rodrigue.
The FBI is investigating the incident out of Miami. Dr. Rodigue says that some 800 school websites were affected nationwide, and schooldesk.net is the company that provides the web service. A representative for schooldesk.net said other companies' websites were also affected, adding that the FBI and Homeland Security are involved.
According to Interim Superintendent Dr. Lorrie Rodrigue, what appeared to be Arabic writing and symbols were on display on the website this morning, as well as a video and a picture of Saddam Hussein.
The website is currently down and will remain down until Dr. Rodrigue is assured the hacking incident won’t happen again. She said that security has been beefed up around town schools today as a precaution.
She also sent an email to parents today outlining what happened.
Dr. Rodrigue said the text and images on the website were “concerning.”
She said in light of Sandy Hook, she was not taking any chances about her response to the hacking, but acknowledged that a heightened sense of concern is common anywhere.
"I think it no longer is just because it's Newtown," said Dr. Rodrigue. "It is happening everywhere."
Newtown Police Chief Jim Viadero said the department has been in touch with the FBI.
"It's disturbing," said Viadero. "If I was a parent who has a child in the school district, I'd be disturbed. I'd have concerns for safety." Chief Viadero said he wants all parents and students to feel safe and comfortable. "We have an adequate school security system in place," said Viadero. "it's very robust."