College of the Desert restores campus internet; still no cause given for second week of ‘computer network disruption’

College of the Desert announced Thursday that internet service has been restored on all campuses after what officials call a ‘computer network disruption’ on July 4. A spokesperson also confirmed to News Channel 3 that a portal for student records and class registration is also back online. The College of the Desert website remains inaccessible, as it has for more than a week.

“COD’s staff has seen students utilizing the temporary pathways for course resources, counseling services, and established resources to ask questions,” Nicholas Robles said in a statement provided to News Channel 3. “COD is restoring service based on its tiered service recovery plan due to the July 4 incident, with services utilized by students being the highest priority.”

The F.B.I investigation is likely to answer a lot of questions. Robles also said there isn’t a definite timeline on the investigation.

Once it’s completed, the college is expected to have better insight as to whether or not student or faculty information was compromised.

News Channel 3 has been tracking updates on the issues since it was first reported in early July. At that time, Jennifer Franco confirmed that the FBI was involved in the investigation, although school officials would not confirm if a malicious attack was behind the disruption. You can read the entire story here.

Although College of the Desert’s internet and registration system are back up and running, the college’s phone lines, staff emails and their school website are still down.

In 2020, the COD website fell victim to a malware attack, wiping out access to online services and email. You can read more on that story here.

While crews work to restore access, the school has set up a temporary website – www.CODnews.org – to provide updates and access to available student services resources, such as counseling and summer class resources. Campuses are open.

For students who need assistance, the college offers the solutions below.

Students who need assistance can get help by visiting the campus in-person or using the established Zoom drop-in hours for Admissions & Records or Counseling:

●    Students can still reach the Counseling Office by utilizing “Cranium Café” with the link https://collegeofthedesert.craniumcafe.com/.
●    Summer class resources are available through Canvas with the link https://mycodus.sharepoint.com.
●    Zoom Classes can be accessed via student Canvas accounts.

School officials also said that COD’s text alert system will continue to be used to provide updates and information to all faculty, staff, and students at daily intervals and as information becomes available.

Tune in at 5 and 6 p.m. tonight as we speak to students and share updates on any potential solutions.

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