The Calgary Public Library system, serving 1.3 million residents across 22 branches, is facing significant service disruptions following a cyberattack. The incident, first publicly acknowledged on Friday, October 12th, 2024, forced the library to close early that day and shut down all servers and library computers. While the library reopened for limited services on Wednesday, October 16th, the impact of the Calgary Public Library cyberattack is substantial and ongoing.
The Impact of the Calgary Public Library Cyberattack
The Calgary Public Library cyberattack has resulted in widespread limitations on services. The library’s statement on its website describes a “significant service disruption.” Crucially, all technology and digital services are currently unavailable. This includes:
- Computer access: Patrons cannot use library computers.
- Printing and Wi-Fi: Printing and wireless internet access are offline.
- Digital library and eResources: Access to online books, databases, and other digital resources is unavailable.
- Online booking and registration: Customers cannot book rooms or register for programs online.
- Book returns: No library locations are currently accepting book returns. All due dates for borrowed materials have been extended.
While physical library spaces remain open, the lack of digital services severely restricts the range of services available to the public. The library has not provided a timeline for the restoration of full services, stating only that they “hope to restore all services as soon as it is safe to do so.”
The Calgary Public Library Cyberattack: Unconfirmed Ransomware Suspicions
Although the Calgary Public Library and the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security have not publicly confirmed the nature of the attack, the circumstances strongly suggest a ransomware attack. The complete shutdown of systems, the significant service disruptions, and the lack of a specific timeline for recovery are all consistent with a ransomware incident.
The increasing number of cyberattacks targeting libraries in recent years highlights the vulnerability of these crucial community institutions. The Seattle Public Library and the British Library have both experienced devastating ransomware attacks in the past, leading to weeks of service disruptions. Similar incidents have also affected major Canadian library systems in Toronto and London, Ontario. The Toronto Public Library attack, in particular, was so severe that it was described as “a crime scene” due to the extent of data theft and the impact on the community.
Calgary Public Library Cyberattack: Looking Ahead
The Calgary Public Library cyberattack underscores the growing threat of ransomware and cybercrime targeting essential public services. The situation is evolving, and further updates are expected as the investigation progresses. The library’s commitment to restoring services as quickly as possible while ensuring data security is commendable. However, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of robust cybersecurity measures for all organizations, especially those providing critical services to the public. The long-term consequences of this Calgary Public Library cyberattack, including the potential for data breaches and the cost of recovery, remain to be seen.
