Preparing for a school cybersecurity audit is an important task that schools need to take seriously. Being well-prepared can help set up schools for success not only during the audit but also for future audits. The first audit may be challenging, but once it is completed successfully, subsequent audits become much easier as you can recycle information and make necessary adjustments.
Auditors typically look for key elements such as multi-factor authentication, secure backups, vulnerability protection, and cybersecurity awareness training. They will ask specific questions related to antivirus protection, backup processes, MFA implementation, and staff training. It is crucial to have clear documentation and evidence to support your responses to these questions.
It is important to note that every auditor is different, and their audit sheets may vary in terms of wording and structure. It is essential to answer questions to the best of your ability and provide evidence when necessary. If your IT staff lacks technical knowledge or documentation, it is advisable to start preparing them ahead of the audit to ensure a smoother process.
Once the first cybersecurity audit is completed successfully, it serves as a template for future audits. Keeping the audit document updated with any changes in systems or processes is crucial. This will help streamline the audit process in the future and provide assurance that your school’s IT environment is secure.
Dave Courbanou from Intelligent CloudCare emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity hygiene, protecting against ransomware attacks, and managing networks and infrastructure in schools. He offers online cybersecurity training through CloudCare University to help schools improve their cybersecurity practices.
In conclusion, preparing for a school cybersecurity audit requires careful planning, documentation, and training. By being proactive and staying up-to-date with cybersecurity best practices, schools can ensure a secure IT environment and mitigate potential risks. If you have any valuable resources to share or need assistance with cybersecurity, you can reach out to Dave Courbanou at dave@intelligentcloudcare.com or submit your contributions to submissions@eschoolmedia.com.
