Hacking in High School, Grades Changed for Money

The Philadelphia Inquirer, a newspaper, reported (citing an unknown source who is familiar with the investigation in school district) that cops think a student accessed the computer system of the school and altered grades of atleast his five classmates for money.

On December 6, 2006, administration at Cherry High School East began notifying the colleges that computerized grades transcripts of students were not affected by a cheating scam.

Cherry Hill cops called the ongoing investigation as "fraud/computer crime", but refused to elaborate. A school spokesperson also confirmed the investigation of restricted improper exploitation of school technology but wouldn't comment further.

Police officials reported that they were first approached in October 2006. A senior allegedly got a computer password and broke into the computer system and altered grades for money. The district would only informed that it was investigating the charge of 'inappropriate use of technology'.

Police didn't comment on specific points but called illegal access of computer a serious offence.

District public information officer, Susan Bastnagel, informed that letters sent to parents on December 7, 2006, would clarify that the district was working to make sure that applications to college remain unaffected.

Bastnagel further said that they were aware of the parents' concerns over the matter and wanted to reassure the parents and students that they were notifying admission personnel at each school to which their students had applied to confirm to the accuracy of their student transcripts. She added that they would attach an assurance letter with each mailed application.

The school with around 2200 students is located in a flush Philadelphia suburb and is considered as one of the best in area. A 16-year ole sophomore Zack Rosennlatt said altering grades was unjust to other students. Zack added that everybody worked hard for grades, so those kids were no different.

Related article: Hacking Attacks Are Increasing to Haunt Banks

» SPAMfighter News - 12/13/2006