Steps Every School Should Take in Light of the Recent Rochester School District Cyberattack

Last Monday, the Rochester Public School District in Minnesota was forced to cancel classes due to a massive cybersecurity breach. An immediate investigation was launched after unusual activity was detected on the district’s computer network on Thursday, April 6th.

“Out of an abundance of caution we shut down our network and almost all of our core technology systems,” RPS Superintendent Dr. Kent Pekel remarked in a video statement released by the district.

As hackers become more and more sophisticated, these attacks will only increase – making it imperative that school districts take the necessary precautions to protect their data networks. Here are some steps you can take to help fortify your network against cyberattacks.

1. Create unique, strong passwords: Use complex passwords for all accounts and devices, and avoid reusing them across multiple platforms.
2. Keep software up-to-date: Regularly update devices, routers, and software with the latest security patches and firmware updates.
3. Add an extra layer of security: Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for online accounts and sensitive information.
4. Protect devices with antivirus software: Install a trusted antivirus and anti-malware solution to safeguard your devices.
5. Secure your Wi-Fi network: Encrypt your Wi-Fi network using a strong password and WPA2 or WPA3 security protocol.
6. Disable remote access: Unless absolutely necessary, turn off remote access features on personal devices and routers.
7. Watch out for phishing attempts: Exercise caution when clicking links or opening attachments in emails from unknown senders.
8. Regularly back up data: Keep copies of important files and data on external storage or secure cloud services.
9. Use a virtual private network (VPN): Protect your online activities and data by using a VPN, especially when connected to public Wi-Fi networks.
10. Stay up-to-date on cybersecurity threats: Stay informed about the latest news and recommendations from reputable sources to stay aware of potential risks and preventive measures.

If you have any questions about cybersecurity, feel free to contact us. In the meantime, be sure to check out Guide to Cybersecurity for K-12 Schools.