Peralta Gems

Security Update: Instructure (Canvas) Cybersecurity Incident

Written by Johnathan Freeman | May 6, 2026 7:50:44 PM

Dear Peralta Community,

We want to share an important update regarding a cybersecurity incident involving Instructure, the company that provides our Canvas learning management system. This incident has affected all 116 California Community Colleges (as well as other colleges and universities), and while the situation is being managed at the state level, we want to ensure students and employees here in the Peralta Community College District have the facts.

What Happened?

Over this past weekend (May 2-3, 2026), Instructure confirmed a security incident. By Monday morning, May 4, they implemented containment measures, including revoking compromised credentials and applying security patches.

The incident is currently contained, though an investigation involving external forensic experts is ongoing to ensure the platform remains secure.

 

Impacted Information

It is important to know exactly what was—and was not—involved in this incident. According to Instructure’s current report:

Potentially Affected Data

Names

Email addresses

Student ID numbers

Internal Canvas messages

 

Data NOT Involved (Safe)

Passwords

Social Security Numbers

Dates of Birth

Financial Information

 

Furthermore, there is no indication of impact to our internal Student Information System (Campus Solutions), Employee Information System (HCM), or other third-party platforms. The data shared with Canvas is limited to what is necessary for course enrollment and access.

 

What You Need to Do

At this time, no immediate action is required from students or employees. You do not need to change your password specifically because of this incident, though practicing good password hygiene is always encouraged.

Please remain vigilant regarding:

  • Phishing Attempts: Be cautious of suspicious emails or messages that reference this security incident or ask for personal login credentials.

 

Our Commitment

The Peralta Community College District is in close contact with the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office and the Systemwide Security Center as they validate the scope of this incident. We are committed to keeping your data safe and will provide further updates as more information becomes available from the state investigation.

Thank you for your patience and for remaining alert.