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Las Cruces Middle School Zoom Meeting Hacked; Investigation Underway

Las Cruces Public Schools has filed a criminal report with Las Cruces Police following an incident Tuesday where a hacker gained access to a school-sponsored Zoom meeting, displaying disturbing content and racial slurs.  

The Zoom meeting was hosted by Camino Real Middle School on behalf of the Parent Teacher Student Organization. About 20 minutes into the meeting, an uninvited attendee began to share their screen, which displayed profane language and explicit content.  

The host immediately stopped the meeting and tried to relaunch it, but the hacker gained access again. The meeting has been postponed while LCPS administration investigate how the incident happened and what safety protocols need to be revisited moving forward.  

LCPS Superintendent Dr. Karen Trujillo was immediately notified and worked with school administrators to inform Camino Real parents of what happened, and what steps the district is taking.  

“This was an isolated incident that reiterates the importance of following all safety measures outlined by the district,” said Trujillo. “As we continue planning for a fully online start to the school year, our focus must be on protecting students and staff from any type of criminal behavior, including online threats. Nothing will come before our students’ safety.” 

District officials circulated a refresher for all staff on the safety measures that are required by all district employees. A copy of that document is posted at www.lcps.net.  

 ‘Zoombombing’, as it is now called, is illegal and punishable by law. Anyone with information on the suspect responsible for Tuesday’s attack is asked to call Las Cruces Doña Ana County Crime Stoppers, 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Information that leads to an arrest is eligible for a cash reward and you will remain anonymous. Tips can also be relayed via the Crime Stoppers app, found in the Apple App Store or Google Play under ‘P3 Tips’, or by clicking on “Submit a tip” at www.crimestopperslc.info.