A university has been hit by a cyber attack which affected a large number of its systems. Police are investigating the incident, which occurred at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS).
It was reported to police on Monday, after the website and majority of phone lines went down. The university is working with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Police Scotland and the Scottish Government to resolve the issue.
Many students are poised to graduate from the university next week, although it is understood this will not be affected. A statement on the university’s affected website reads: “Areas of our website are currently down and we apologise for any inconvenience this might cause.
“We are working to resolve this as soon as possible, please check back again soon.”
A university spokesman told STV: “The university is experiencing an ongoing cyber incident which is currently affecting a number of digital systems.
“All precautionary steps are being taken to manage the situation.
“University colleagues are working closely with internal and external experts, including the relevant authorities, such as Police Scotland, the National Cyber Security Centre and the Scottish Government.
“In consultation with this external support, we have been following a controlled process and are making steady steps towards a resolution.”
Police Scotland confirmed they are looking into the attacks. A spokesperson said: “An investigation is under way, following a report of a cyber incident in Paisley.
“The matter was reported to police on 3 July and inquiries are ongoing.”
An NCSC spokesperson added: “We are supporting the University of the West of Scotland along with other partners in their response to this incident.”
The Scottish Government was contacted for comment.
