School Cybersecurity: Why Hackers Remain Active During Summer Break

School Cybersecurity: Why Hackers Remain Active During Summer Break

As summer break rolls around, students and teachers alike are looking forward to a well-deserved rest and relaxation. However, for school administrators and IT teams, the work never stops when it comes to cybersecurity. The challenges of securing school networks and data remain ever-present, especially during the summer months when hackers tend to increase their activity. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why hackers target schools during summer break, the importance of rethinking cybersecurity in education, and practical steps schools can take to strengthen their defenses.

Rethinking Cybersecurity in Education

The traditional approach to cybersecurity in education has often been reactive rather than proactive. Schools have typically focused on implementing security measures to prevent attacks, rather than taking a holistic approach to cybersecurity. However, as the threat landscape evolves and cyber attacks become more sophisticated, it’s crucial for schools to rethink their cybersecurity strategies. This includes adopting a proactive stance towards security, investing in robust defenses, and cultivating a culture of cybersecurity awareness among staff and students.

One of the key challenges faced by schools is the need to bolster network continuity as they adopt more technology. With the rapid digitization of education in recent years, schools have become increasingly reliant on technology to deliver lessons, communicate with students and parents, and manage administrative tasks. This shift towards digital learning has opened up new avenues for cyber attacks, as hackers target the sensitive data stored on school networks. To mitigate this risk, schools must invest in robust cybersecurity solutions that can protect their data and systems from unauthorized access and malicious activity.

Summer Skeleton Crews: Fighting Back Against Cyber Threats

During the summer months, when classrooms are empty and most staff are on vacation, schools are particularly vulnerable to cyber attacks. Hackers take advantage of the reduced security measures and understaffed IT teams to infiltrate school networks and steal sensitive data. To combat this threat, summer skeleton crews can take proactive steps to strengthen their defenses and protect their networks.

One effective strategy for summer skeleton crews is to focus on mapping ecosystems, patching devices, and enforcing strict password practices. By conducting a comprehensive inventory of all devices connected to the network, schools can identify potential vulnerabilities and take steps to secure their systems. Patching devices with the latest software updates is essential for closing security gaps and preventing cyber attacks. Enforcing strict password practices, such as using complex passwords and multi-factor authentication, can help thwart hackers attempting to gain unauthorized access to school systems.

The Rise of Ransomware Attacks in Education

Ransomware attacks in education have been on the rise in recent years, with schools becoming prime targets for cyber criminals. The Los Angeles Unified School District, the nation’s second-largest school system, fell victim to a ransomware attack over Labor Day weekend in 2022, resulting in a significant data leak and compromising sensitive student information. This incident highlights the serious consequences of cyber attacks on schools and the urgent need for improved cybersecurity measures.

According to a report from Emsisoft, there has been a surge in K-12 cyberattacks, with cases more than doubling from 45 in 2022 to 108 in 2023. Cybercriminals target schools because they host valuable information on outdated systems with lower defenses, making them easy targets for exploitation. With schools still catching up to the rapid digitization brought about by remote learning and COVID-19 lockdowns, the risk of cyber attacks remains high. Hackers see summer vacation as an opportunity to exploit network vulnerabilities and remain undetected for extended periods, maximizing the impact and profitability of their attacks.

Steps for Stronger School Cybersecurity

To strengthen school cybersecurity, IT teams can take three key steps during the summer break. First, conducting a comprehensive inventory of all devices connected to the network can help identify potential security risks and vulnerabilities. This was exemplified by Canada’s Barnaby School District, which uncovered over 2,000 additional endpoints through a unified endpoint management platform, highlighting the importance of knowing what’s connected to the network.

Second, ensuring that all devices are updated with the latest software patches is essential for closing security gaps and preventing cyber attacks. With nearly half of reported software vulnerabilities remaining unpatched, schools must prioritize patch management to protect their systems from exploitation. Implementing a strategy for patch implementation, conducting regular device audits, and establishing rollback plans can help schools stay ahead of cyber threats.

Finally, getting serious about access control is crucial for mitigating the risk of unauthorized access to school systems. Complex passwords backed by multi-factor authentication provide an additional layer of security, making it harder for hackers to breach school networks. By implementing stricter access controls, schools can effectively thwart cyber attacks without breaking the bank.

Collaborating for Cyber Resilience

Schools cannot tackle cybersecurity challenges alone. Policymakers and school districts play a crucial role in supporting schools in strengthening their cyber defenses and making attacks less financially rewarding. One area that requires top-down leadership is the issue of ransom payments, with about half of globally affected schools paying to recover stolen data. While banning ransom payments could deter cyber criminals, it’s a complex issue that requires careful consideration.

Encouragingly, cybersecurity coordination is advancing at the national level with the formation of the Government Coordinating Council for the Education Facilities Subsector. This collaborative effort brings together federal, state, and local governments to provide essential guidance and resources for schools to enhance their cyber resilience. By leveraging the expertise of the Department of Education and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, schools can make significant progress in safeguarding their data and protecting their staff and students.

Summer: The Ultimate Test for School Cybersecurity

As we enjoy the summer months, it’s essential not to overlook the cybersecurity challenges facing our schools. By focusing on device inventory, software updates, and access control, summer skeleton crews can make significant strides in thwarting potential cyber attacks and laying the groundwork for the new school year. The summer break may be a time for students to relax, but for schools, it’s the ultimate test for cybersecurity – one that we cannot afford to fail.

In Conclusion

The summer break presents a unique opportunity for schools to strengthen their cybersecurity defenses and protect their data from cyber threats. By taking proactive steps to map ecosystems, patch devices, and enforce strict password practices, schools can mitigate the risk of cyber attacks and safeguard their systems. Collaboration between policymakers, school districts, and IT teams is vital in supporting schools in enhancing their cyber resilience and making attacks less financially rewarding. As we navigate the challenges of cybersecurity in education, let’s work together to ensure that our schools remain safe and secure for students and staff alike.