Toronto’s library systems will not be fully restored until 2024, following a cyberattack in October.
The city’s library systems have been struggling to recover from a major cyberattack that occurred in October of last year. The attack, which was described as a “malicious ransomware,” caused significant damage to the library’s computer systems and resulted in the shutdown of all online services.
Initially, it was hoped that the systems would be restored within a few weeks. However, as the extent of the damage became clearer, it became apparent that the recovery process would take much longer.
According to a recent update from the Toronto Public Library, the restoration process is now expected to take until 2024. This means that it will be several more years before the library’s online services are fully operational again.
The delay in the restoration process is due to the complexity of the attack and the amount of damage it caused. The library’s IT team has been working tirelessly to recover and rebuild the affected systems, but the process has been slow and challenging.
In the meantime, the library has been able to restore some of its online services, such as access to e-books and audiobooks. However, other services, such as online reservations and renewals, are still unavailable.
The library has also implemented additional security measures to prevent future cyberattacks. These include regular security audits, increased training for staff, and the implementation of new security protocols.
The cyberattack on the Toronto library systems serves as a reminder of the growing threat of cybercrime. As more and more services move online, it is crucial for organizations to prioritize cybersecurity and have robust measures in place to protect against attacks.
The library has apologized for the inconvenience caused by the cyberattack and the delay in the restoration process. They have also assured the public that they are doing everything in their power to expedite the recovery and restore full services as soon as possible.
In the meantime, the library is encouraging patrons to visit their local branches and take advantage of the physical resources available. They have also set up a hotline for any questions or concerns related to the cyberattack and its impact on library services.
The Toronto Public Library is a vital resource for the community, providing access to information, education, and entertainment. While the cyberattack has caused significant disruption, the library remains committed to serving the public and is working diligently to overcome this setback.