October marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month, making it the perfect time for schools to strengthen their defenses against cyber threats. K-12 schools are frequent targets for cyberattacks, and the stakes are high. At IKON EduTech Group, we help schools build robust cybersecurity programs aligned with the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and industry best practices.
Here are three actionable steps schools can take right now:
1. Invest in High-Impact Security Measures
With limited resources, schools must prioritize the most effective defenses:
- Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of security by requiring more than just a password. Start with administrators and other high-privilege accounts. Use CISA’s MFA Enhancement Guide to get started.
- Keep Software Updated: Regular patching prevents many attacks. Prioritize known vulnerabilities listed in CISA’s catalog. Sign up for free vulnerability scanning reports to stay ahead of potential threats.
- Back Up and Test Data: Regularly back up critical data and store it separately from the operational network. Test your backup system frequently to ensure you can recover quickly from any attack.
2. Make the Most of Limited Resources
Not all security measures require significant spending:
- Use Free or Low-Cost Tools: CISA offers a Cybersecurity Services and Tools catalog with resources to detect threats and respond quickly. These can fill gaps in your school’s security.
- Expect More from Vendors: Don’t pay extra for essential security features like MFA or logging. Ensure your vendors enable security by default, and review their hardening guides for further protection.
- Consider Cloud Solutions: On-premises IT systems can be expensive to maintain. Moving to secure cloud services, like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365, reduces costs and improves resilience.
3. Collaborate and Share Information
Schools should work together to stay ahead of cyber threats:
- Join Local Cybersecurity Groups: In New York State, schools can benefit from joining the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC). MS-ISAC provides critical alerts, free cybersecurity tools, and 24/7 incident support specifically tailored to New York’s public sector. By collaborating with this network, schools stay ahead of threats and gain access to valuable resources for threat mitigation and response.
- Connect with State and Federal Experts: Build relationships with New York State Education Department (NYSED) cybersecurity experts, local FBI field offices, and CISA (Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency) advisors. These partnerships give New York schools fast access to federal and state-level support during a cybersecurity incident, ensuring prompt assistance to minimize damage and protect student data.
- Create and Test an Incident Response Plan (IRP): Develop an IRP that outlines what to do before, during, and after an attack. Review the plan regularly to ensure it’s up to date.
Take Action Now During Cybersecurity Awareness Month
October is the perfect time to strengthen your school’s cybersecurity. IKON EduTech Group can guide you through these key strategies—from MFA implementation to creating an incident response plan. Don’t wait for a breach to take action. Schedule a consultation with IKON EduTech Group to safeguard your school’s data and keep students safe from cyber threats