The Toronto Public Library has revealed that its systems, which were the target of a cyberattack in late October, will remain down until 2024.
In a recent statement, officials said: “Given the complexity and magnitude of this task involving TPL’s data centre and computers across 100 library branches, and the interconnectivity of our systems, we anticipate the restoration of library services will take several more weeks.”
The library wants a situation where access to services will be restored gradually starting in January. Priority will be given to the library’s computer systems and the reinstatement of its website.
Officials added: “We recognize this is a long period of time without full library services, but this is considered an aggressive timeframe within the context of such an attack and the experience of other institutions in similar circumstances.
“We appreciate your patience and understanding while we do everything we can to restore our services as quickly as possible.”
The TPL website, its public computers and printers at their physical branches, have been down since the system was attacked by a ransomware attack on Oct. 28.
Officials believe that former employees’ private data, including social insurance numbers and copies of government-issued identification, were likely stolen.
According to officials, cardholder and donor databases were unaffected but some data on the server may have been exposed.
Library officials have disclosed that staff are working with third-party experts to reinstall the systems and enhance its network security before bringing everything back online.
Library branches however remain open for browsing and use of other services.
