The Sabine Parish School Board has stated that they were the victim of an email phishing attack that resulted in $251,972 being paid to a fraudulent account instead of the intended vendor.
The $251,972 in question was part of a school safety grant that totaled over $375,000 with the money allotted being set to install weapons detection systems at all Sabine Parish school sites. The grant funds, alongside SPSD funds completed the safety enhancements at all school campuses.
In a released statement, the school board and Superintendent Shane Wright stated they take the responsibility to be transparent and accountable to the public seriously, but due to the ongoing nature of the investigation they are limited as to what aspects can be discussed.
However, they do state that once the discrepancy was discovered the proper authorities were notified and a follow- up investigation was initiated. Multiple state and local agencies have been informed of the event and have contributed to the investigation. An external auditor was reviewed and steps have been taken to ensure the school board does not fall victim to any future phishing attacks. The school board has also filed a claim with their insurance agency to recover the loss.
It is worth noting that governmental agencies are often targeted in phishing and ransomware attacks.