NaNoWriMo Closes After 25 Years Amid AI and Moderation Controversies
The beloved online writing platform National Novel Writing Month has announced its permanent shutdown after 25 years, citing financial difficulties and recent controversies. The closure follows intense debates over AI use in creative writing and concerns about forum moderation safety.
Federal Crackdown: Pro-Palestinian Student Activists Face Intensified Surveillance and Deportation
Federal authorities are dramatically escalating surveillance and detention of pro-Palestinian activists across Massachusetts universities, with hundreds of student visas revoked. The controversial crackdown raises urgent questions about civil liberties and academic freedom on American campuses.
AI-Generated Books Flood Public Libraries, Sparking Quality and Cost Concerns
Public libraries face a growing crisis as AI-generated content overwhelms digital lending platforms, particularly affecting services like OverDrive and Hoopla. The surge of low-quality, machine-created books threatens collection integrity and strains library budgets while raising questions about content oversight.
South Korea Bans DeepSeek AI Chatbot from Schools Over Data Privacy Risks
South Korean education officials have implemented an immediate nationwide ban on DeepSeek's AI chatbot across educational institutions due to privacy and security concerns. The controversial decision stems from worries about the platform's data collection practices and storage of information on Chinese servers.
PowerSchool Data Breach Exposes Sensitive Student Records in Major Education Platform Attack
PowerSchool, a leading K-12 education software provider, confirms unauthorized access to its Student Information System resulting in theft of sensitive student and teacher data. The company took the unusual step of paying a ransom in exchange for data deletion, highlighting a shift toward data theft-focused cyberattacks.
Maine Schools Under Cyber Siege: Holiday Attacks Expose Educational Vulnerabilities
Two Maine school districts faced cyberattacks during winter break, forcing network shutdowns and emergency response measures. The incidents highlight an alarming trend of cybercriminals targeting educational institutions during periods of reduced IT staffing, prompting federal initiatives to strengthen school cybersecurity.
FTC Cracks Down on AI-Powered Weapons Scanner Maker for Misleading Claims
The Federal Trade Commission orders Evolv Technologies to stop exaggerating its AI-based weapons detection system's capabilities after revealing it performs similarly to standard metal detectors at higher costs. The settlement particularly impacts educational institutions, allowing them to cancel contracts following performance issues and misrepresented claims.
Educational Institutions Warned Against Microsoft 365 Copilot Over Privacy Risks
SURF's recent assessment reveals significant privacy concerns with Microsoft 365 Copilot, including data handling transparency issues and accuracy problems. The organization strongly advises educational institutions to avoid using the AI tool until adequate protective measures are implemented.
Tennessee School District Hit by BlackSuit Ransomware, State Bureau Investigates
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has launched a probe into a network disruption at Rutherford County Schools, potentially linked to the BlackSuit ransomware group. The incident has forced the district to recall student devices and implement temporary solutions while systems remain offline.
Michigan School District Battles Cyberattack While Managing Budget Crisis
Wayne-Westland Community Schools faces service disruptions and parent concerns following a cyberattack that knocked out internet and phone services. Despite the challenges, officials confirm student data remains secure while working to restore services and rebuild community trust.