The Impact of Cybersecurity on the Education Sector: Safeguarding Schools in the Digital Age

As the education sector increasingly embraces digital technologies, the threat of cyber-attacks on schools and universities has risen dramatically. In England, including London, educational institutions are becoming prime targets for cybercriminals, with the growing use of technology and the abundance of sensitive student and staff data being major risk factors. The need for robust cybersecurity in schools has never been greater, especially considering the vast number of endpoints, connected devices, and personnel who need training to mitigate these risks.

Why Schools and Universities are Vulnerable to Cyber Attacks

Educational institutions face unique challenges when it comes to cybersecurity. Schools, colleges, and universities must handle a vast amount of sensitive information—student records, staff data, research materials, and financial details—all of which make them attractive targets for cybercriminals. The increase in endpoints, such as laptops, mobile phones, and IoT devices used in classrooms, only amplifies the risk.

In London and across England, the digitalisation of education has accelerated, with the Department for Education (DfE) promoting the use of technology to enhance learning outcomes. However, with this growth comes new cybersecurity challenges, such as:

  • Vulnerable IT Infrastructure: Many schools still rely on outdated IT systems that are ill-equipped to handle modern cyber threats.
  • Limited Budgets: Schools often have limited funding for cybersecurity, focusing their resources on teaching and learning rather than digital security.
  • Widespread Adoption of IoT Devices: From smartboards to digital learning platforms, IoT devices are transforming the learning environment. However, each connected device represents a potential point of entry for cybercriminals.

Cyber Threats Facing the Education Sector

1. Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware has emerged as one of the most prevalent threats to schools in recent years. Hackers encrypt critical data and demand payment to unlock it. In the UK, 75% of schools have reported experiencing at least one type of cyber incident, with ransomware being among the most common . In 2021, a cyber-attack on the Harris Federation, a London-based network of schools, resulted in widespread disruption, with 50 schools having to shut down their computer systems. The cost of such incidents can be severe, not only financially but in terms of lost learning time.

2. Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks target school staff and students through malicious emails designed to steal credentials or install malware. Given that educational institutions typically employ hundreds of staff, this type of attack is particularly effective. Training staff to recognise phishing attempts is crucial, but many schools have limited cybersecurity training in place.

3. Data Breaches

Educational institutions are custodians of sensitive personal data, including names, addresses, and national insurance numbers. A breach could lead to identity theft and financial fraud. The DfE’s 2022 survey revealed that nearly 40% of schools and colleges in the UK have experienced a data breach .

The Challenge of Multiple Endpoints and IoT Devices

The rapid adoption of IoT technology in schools has transformed how educators deliver lessons and how students engage with learning materials. However, each connected device, whether a tablet used by students or a smart projector in the classroom, represents a potential point of entry for cyber attackers.

In London, where the push towards tech-based learning is especially strong, classrooms are filled with a wide range of connected devices. An average school in England may have over 200 endpoints between devices used by staff and students . Each endpoint must be properly secured to prevent access by cybercriminals.

IoT devices in the education sector are often seen as low-priority in terms of cybersecurity. Many of these devices are vulnerable to malware or network-based attacks because they lack strong security protocols. Recent data from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) suggests that by 2025, IoT devices will outnumber human-operated endpoints by a ratio of 3:1 , highlighting the growing need for better endpoint security strategies in schools.

Training a Large Workforce

One of the key challenges in improving cybersecurity in schools is the need to train a large workforce that may not have much technical knowledge. Teachers and administrators are focused on their primary tasks—educating students and managing schools—so cybersecurity often takes a backseat.

However, with phishing attacks and ransomware becoming more sophisticated, it's essential that staff receive comprehensive training. The UK's Education and Training Foundation estimates that there are over 300,000 teachers in England alone , and that doesn't include administrative staff and other personnel, all of whom need to be aware of cybersecurity best practices.

Cybersecurity training should cover a wide range of areas, from recognising phishing emails to understanding how to safely use IoT devices in classrooms. Tailored training solutions, such as those offered by Logixal Document Solutions, are designed to educate staff at all levels on the specific threats faced by the education sector.

Tailored Cybersecurity Solutions for Schools

At Logixal, we understand that each school has its own unique challenges when it comes to cybersecurity. That’s why we offer tailored solutions that fit the specific needs of educational institutions. Our approach focuses on:

  1. Comprehensive Training Programs: We provide role-based training for all school staff, ensuring that everyone—from IT staff to teachers—has the skills to recognise and respond to cyber threats.
  2. Securing Endpoints: With so many connected devices in schools, our security solutions are designed to protect every endpoint, preventing malware and unauthorised access to critical systems.
  3. Ongoing Support: We offer continuous monitoring and support to ensure that your school’s cybersecurity is always up to date, especially as new threats emerge.

Government Initiatives and Best Practices

To combat the growing threat of cyber-attacks in education, the UK government has introduced various initiatives aimed at bolstering cybersecurity in schools. The NCSC provides free resources and advice, including a toolkit for schools to improve their cyber resilience . In addition, the DfE recommends that schools implement the Cyber Essentials certification to ensure that they have basic protections in place.

Conclusion

The education sector is at a critical juncture when it comes to cybersecurity. Schools, colleges, and universities across London and England must face the reality that cyber-attacks are not just a possibility but a growing threat. With numerous endpoints, IoT devices, and a large workforce to train, securing the digital infrastructure of educational institutions requires a strategic approach.

At Logixal, we are committed to helping schools build robust cybersecurity defences through tailored solutions, expert training, and ongoing support. As the education sector continues to evolve in the digital age, ensuring that cybersecurity is a top priority will be essential to safeguarding both students and staff.

If your school or educational institution needs assistance in improving its cybersecurity posture, contact Logixal today to learn how we can help you navigate these challenges and protect your future.