The Rise of Ransomware Attacks on Schools
In recent years, ransomware attacks targeting educational institutions have significantly increased, threatening student data and disrupting school operations across the United States. These incidents highlight the vulnerabilities in school cybersecurity systems and emphasize the need for enhanced preventative measures.
Ransomware attacks on schools are escalating at an alarming rate. According to the K12 Security Information Exchange (K12 SIX), a nonprofit dedicated to protecting schools from cyber threats, at least 325 ransomware attacks targeted U.S. school districts between April 2016 and November 2022. The trend shows no signs of slowing, with 83 potential incidents reported between January 2023 and June 2024, including 21 attacks in the first half of 2024 (CBS News, 2024).
A Case Study: Tucson Unified School District
In January 2023, the Tucson Unified School District in Arizona experienced a devastating ransomware attack by the “Royal” cyber gang. The attackers encrypted and copied sensitive data, including records for over 40,000 students and 10,000 staff members, demanding a ransom to prevent the data from being leaked online. This incident led to a two-week school closure and nearly $1 million in recovery costs (CBS News, 2024).
Why Schools Are Targets
Educational institutions are attractive targets for cybercriminals for several reasons. Limited cybersecurity resources make schools more vulnerable to attacks, and student data holds high value on the black market. Young students, in particular, are at risk because their unmonitored credit histories can be exploited for years before detection (CBS News, 2024). Doug Levin, national director of K12 SIX, describes schools as “low-hanging fruit” for ransomware attackers.
Governmental Efforts to Mitigate Risks
The federal government has recognized the growing threat of ransomware attacks on schools. In May 2023, the U.S. Department of Education established the Government Coordinating Council for the Education Facilities Subsector to enhance collaboration among various levels of government to improve cybersecurity in educational institutions. Additionally, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) launched a $200 million pilot program aimed at funding cybersecurity improvements for schools and libraries (CBS News, 2024).
Prevention Strategies
Schools can adopt several measures to reduce the risk of ransomware attacks. A zero-trust approach to online activity, regular software updates, installation of antivirus systems, and vigilance against malicious links are critical steps in protecting their digital infrastructure. Cybersecurity education for students and staff is equally essential (CBS News, 2024).
Contact Fortis Cyber Solutions to speak to a cybersecurity expert about your schools’ current systems and to ensure you’re protected and compliant.
Resources: CBS News. (2024, December 1). School ransomware attacks threaten student data. Retrieved from https://www.cbsnews.com/news/school-ransomware-attacks-threaten-student-data/
