As cyberattacks remain on the rise, implementing a cybersecurity plan before an attack happens is necessary to protect K-12 schools. Changing the way we approach these threats ensures school data and information is safe and untouched.
Modernizing your cybersecurity gives your company a better chance to even the playing field, which makes you less of a target to potential hackers. Don’t take our word for it: in September of this year, the FBI issued a warning to schools, stating that cyber threats are on the rise and schools are the most vulnerable.
This widespread issue is no longer just about schools’ data, it’s about children’s safety and future.
Keep Your Technology Up to Date
It has become common for K-12 cybersecurity within schools to use free or outdated systems lacking the latest technology or updates, which in turn makes these institutions the perfect targets for a cyber attack. A popular mistake many schools make is assuming sticking with their outdated technology is more cost-effective.
In the past three years, cyberattacks have skyrocketed. In 2021 alone, there were over 1,200 schools affected by ransomware attacks. The average cost in the U.S as of 2022 for these attacks is 9.44 million dollars – making it extremely costly in comparison to updating your technology.
Although upgrading your systems and equipment is important, software updates are just as crucial. Your IT Plan should include regular scans and software patches to ensure the ever-evolving ways hackers make their way to your data can be mitigated.
Train Your Staff
Having a team that is aware of how to protect themselves and your organization can save you from unnecessary threats.
Often, staff end up being the weak links of K-12 cybersecurity because they are often not informed on what to avoid:
- Clicking on suspicious links
- Falling for phishing scams
- Not properly protecting their passwords.
Including cybersecurity training in orientations and ongoing staff development ensures everyone is up to date on the latest cyber threats, aware of how to protect themselves, and knowledgeable on how to protect their school’s cybersecurity. Modernize your staff’s cybersecurity education to mitigate possible breaches.
Preparing for Threats
Cybersecurity threats are inevitable, but being prepared and preventing them from being successful is crucial in protecting your school. Although updating your technology and training your staff are necessary steps in preparing for threats, partnering with a trusted cybersecurity provider can give you the upper hand in K-12 cybersecurity protection.
Having a plan in place for when cyberattacks do occur is a carefully curated service with ANC Group. Our team of experts have experience and accreditation catering to the educational system and the cyber threats this industry faces.
We offer IT services covering the following areas:
- Network Infrastructure – ensuring your servers, computers, and network equipment are in working order.
- Cloud Solutions – protecting your data in the cloud and mitigating any potential breaches.
- Security – implementing the latest cybersecurity measures, including firewalls and encryption.
Implementing a modern approach to K-12 cybersecurity within schools is more vital now than ever. Partner with us and learn more about what you can do to become cyber secure.
