As digital tools become integral to education, protecting school data from cyber threats is essential. Educational institutions hold vast amounts of sensitive information, from student records to financial data, making them prime targets for cyber-attacks. Effective governance and compliance are crucial in defending this data, ensuring that schools follow regulations and uphold strong security measures.
At Everything ICT, we understand the unique challenges schools face in maintaining data security. As a Department for Education (DfE) recommended procurement framework, we provide schools with access to a range of secure, compliant systems, including supporting the latest Windows 11 upgrade. The solutions are designed to keep schools ahead of potential cyber threats while ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
In this blog, we'll explore the governance aspect of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) in education, with a spotlight on data security and regulatory compliance.
The importance of data security in education
Schools are increasingly reliant on digital tools and online platforms, which, while enhancing learning experiences, also expose them to various cyber risks. Outdated software and systems can leave schools vulnerable to cyber-attacks, data breaches, and ransomware attacks, which can have devastating consequences. For instance, outdated operating systems can be easily exploited by cybercriminals, leading to unauthorised access to sensitive information.
Risks associated with outdated software
As technology continues to become embedded in education, the importance of protecting school data from cyber threats escalates. Outdated software can pose significant risks:
Increased vulnerability: Without the latest security patches, outdated software becomes an easy target for hackers looking to exploit known vulnerabilities.
Data breaches: Schools running outdated systems are more prone to data breaches, allowing unauthorised individuals to access and steal sensitive information.
Operational disruptions: Cyber-attacks can disrupt school operations, causing downtime and loss of critical data.
The role of cyber security measures
Implementing robust cyber security measures is essential to protect sensitive educational data. These measures include:
Strong access controls: Using role-based access control (RBAC) and multi-factor authentication (MFA) to limit access to sensitive information.
Regular backups: Conducting regular backups and testing disaster recovery plans to ensure data can be restored in the event of a breach.
Staff training: Providing regular cybersecurity training to staff and students to raise awareness and reduce the risk of human error.
Framework support
Everything ICT partners with top-tier suppliers specialising in cyber security and data protection solutions. Our framework provides access to suppliers offering a range of services, including:
Cyber security solutions: From firewalls and anti-malware to secure cloud storage, our suppliers provide comprehensive solutions to protect school data.
Data protection compliance: Ensuring compliance with regulations such as GDPR through robust security measures and regular audits.
Ensuring data security in education may seem complex, but it's absolutely essential. By prioritising governance and compliance, schools can safeguard sensitive information and maintain trust with students, parents, and staff. At Everything ICT, we’re dedicated to helping schools navigate these challenges with our DfE-recommended framework, offering value for money, personalised support, and full compliance to create a secure digital environment.
For more information on how Everything ICT can support your school's cybersecurity needs, please get in touch with our team today.