University of West of Scotland working with police and government after cyber attack

A Scottish university has suffered a major cyber attack affecting most of its systems.

The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) said it is working with experts from the national cyber security centre, Police Scotland and the Scottish Government after its website was shut down for several days.

A message on the site displays a message warning it is “currently down” for maintenance and apologises for any inconvenience.

Staff said they were working on resolving the issue, but added graduations planned for next week would not be affected.

The university has campuses in Paisley, Ayr, Dumfries and Blantyre and London.

A spokesperson said: “The University is experiencing an ongoing cyber incident which is currently affecting a number of digital systems.

“All precautionary steps are being taken to manage the situation.

“University colleagues are working closely with internal and external experts, including the relevant authorities, such as Police Scotland, the National Cyber Security Centre, and the Scottish Government.

“In consultation with this external support, we have been following a controlled process and are making steady steps towards a resolution.”

Police Scotland confirmed they are looking into the attacks.

A spokesperson said: “An investigation is under way, following a report of a cyber incident in Paisley.

“The matter was reported to police on 3 July and inquiries are ongoing.”

An NCSC spokesperson added: “We are supporting the University of the West of Scotland along with other partners in their response to this incident.”

The Scottish Government was contacted for comment.