The latest on ransomware in schools - via teamSOS
4 things you can do now to prevent Ransomware disrupting learning
Since August last year, the Education sector has sadly become a growing target for cyber criminals, so much so, the NCSC were compelled to alert the sector of the growing threat of ransomware in schools.
Unfortunately, where there’s a will there’s a way and whilst schools are taking every measure to shore up their defences, ransomware and other cyberattacks are an evolving threat which make it just as important to plan how you will manage and recover from an attack.
I don’t really want to mention the ‘C word’ (Covid-19) but it has had a massive impact on learning and working practices, especially where your technology, staff and students are located, it’s also diminished the control you have over your infrastructure. Perhaps this is one of the reasons why hackers see the education sector as an easy target?
So, what is Ransomware?
It’s a type of malware that uses encryption to hold a victim’s information for ransom. It encrypts a user or organization’s critical data so that they cannot access files, databases, or applications. A ransom is then demanded to provide access. Ransomware is often designed to spread across a network and target database and file servers, and as such can quickly paralyze an entire organisation.
Think about the responsibilities on IT managers and network technicians, they have snowballed from keeping services running into securing and defending your digital estate from highly skilled and motivated adversaries.
Attacks can be simple or sophisticated – we just need to make it as difficult as possible for hackers to gain access. Losing access to your core systems can result in learning disruption, school closure and even personal information disclosure.
Should we be afraid of Cyberattacks?
No, we shouldn’t! We’re not afraid of safeguarding or data protection, they’re a responsibility pervasive throughout the organisation and we fulfil that obligation with pride. So why should we be afraid of cybersecurity. It’s a key element of school security and one that crucially underpins Safeguarding and Data Protection along with many other responsibilities. Good cyber security will help improve student outcomes, the welfare of both students and staff and make your school a safer place to learn and work. So, no, we shouldn’t be afraid. Aware and disciplined, yes, but not afraid.
Attacks can be simple or sophisticated – we just need to make it as difficult as possible for hackers to gain access. Losing access to your core systems can result in learning disruption, school closure and even personal information disclosure.
What can we do to prepare for a Ransomware attack?
There are 4 areas schools need to consider when preparing for a Ransomware:
1. Plan, 2. People, 3. Practise, 4. Public
Continue reading on the teamSOS website
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Related news - Schools closed after data breach
As reported by BBC news, two schools have closed after hackers broke into their servers, stole data and encrypted pupil information.
Read more on the EdExec website
Advice - how can SBS help?
This blog follows on from the previous cybersecurity advice from SBS' Zsolt Merenyi. We hope you have found this information useful. If you require any help or support from our team, please contact SBS and we will be happy to help on 0345 222 1551 • Option 1 or email ICTservicedesk@schoolbusinessservices.co.uk
