With a number of high profile attacks last year and recent vulnerabilities being discovered with Intel, ARM and AMD chips, the exposure of public services to attack has been catapulted into the spotlight. Our cyber security experts highlight four key areas of focus to help schools build a robust cyber security strategy.
Perception
Cyber security is an important topic for any school and should be discussed at board and governor levels.
School cyber security is a large and complex issue with a landscape that is constantly evolving. Consider hiring a security specialist to keep the board and governors up-to-date with the latest cyber-threats and to ensure the right protective measures are being put in place. Making sure that you are educated on the cyber risks that are out there will also allow for more effective protection.
Policy
It has been claimed that up-to 60 percent of all cyber-related breaches are a result of human error. As such, everyone from the headteacher to the staff and pupils needs clear education and guidelines on cyber security protocol.
Building a strong security culture will ensure that everyone is vigilant and aware of threats. By educating both staff and pupils on the risks of their actions and having clear security processes in place you will minimise the risks.
Protection
Building robust cyber defences that cyber-criminals will struggle to infiltrate is a huge step towards protecting your staff and pupils.
Firewalls, encryption and good security software should form the basis of a strong cyber defence.
Taking security seriously at all points of the school’s network is vital, likewise is putting those defenses to the test.
Proactivity
Cyber security is an ever changing landscape and you need to stay up-to-date with the latest improvements to ensure you are as protected as you can be.
This is where your security specialist will come in handy as they should be driving the information to you.
Summing up
Cyber crime is not going to disappear anytime soon. With children and the younger generation increasingly at risk of exposure, cyber security must be taken seriously as being protected is vital in this digital age. Get in touch for you ITSB Free Cyber security Assessment. free-cyber-assessment/