An Update on the Recent SmartFox Security Incident

At Method Schools, we know that trust is built on transparency and consistent communication. That’s why we want to provide families with clear information about the recent SmartFox file access issue, what we’ve learned, and the steps we are taking to protect students and keep learning on track.

What Happened

Earlier this week, we identified a serious disruption in SmartFox, our curriculum platform, that was traced back to a security-related incident with Amazon Web Services (AWS), the system where our media files are stored. This impacted many of our students, as online courses rely on media files stored in this system. 

How We’re Responding

• Ongoing Investigation: Our team, along with Method and external technical experts, is reviewing the incident closely to fully understand the scope.

• Precautionary Measures: If we determine that any personal information requires protection, affected families will receive a formal notification letter with next steps.

• Direct Access for Teachers: Teachers continue to have access to essential media files and can share them directly with students, ensuring learning remains uninterrupted.

• Instructional Flexibility: Teachers are adjusting pacing and assignments as needed so students can continue progressing without additional stress.

Commitment to Security

We want to reassure families that we take privacy and security extremely seriously. Our students’ safety—both online and in-person—remains our top priority. The Method team has already implemented additional safeguards to prevent further incidents, and we will continue to evaluate and add new measures to strengthen protection.

In accordance with state and federal requirements, we have also reported this incident to the California Attorney General’s Office and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). This step helps ensure the matter is properly documented and monitored by the appropriate authorities.

What Families Can Expect

• No Immediate Action Required: At this time, there is nothing families need to do.

• Direct Notifications: If your family is directly affected, you will receive a follow-up letter with specific details.

• Continued Communication: We will share updates promptly as new information becomes available.

Finally, Thank You.

We deeply appreciate the patience and understanding of our families during this time. While this incident has caused some disruption, we remain confident in the resilience of our students, teachers, and technology partners to adapt quickly and keep learning moving forward. We expect things to continue to get back to normal during the upcoming week, and we believe this issue will be fully resolved quickly, as Method teachers and curriculum writers are working nearly around the clock to re-add media files to courses, where necessary.

If you have any immediate concerns, please reach out to your student’s teacher or our support team at info@methodschools.org.