A Call for Enhanced Security

Recent Examples of Ransomware Attacks

One of the most notable incidents involved a hacking group called Vice Society. They targeted 14 schools, including Pates Grammar School in Gloucestershire, and leaked highly confidential documents online. The stolen data included children’s SEN information, child passport scans, staff pay scales, and contract details.

In another incident, a ransomware attack on the Harris Federation, which runs 50 primary and secondary academies in and around London, left 37,000 pupils unable to access their email.

The Damage Caused

The damage caused by these attacks is extensive and multi-faceted. In addition to the immediate disruption of educational services, ransomware attacks often lead to the loss of critical data. This includes student coursework, school financial records, and even data relating to COVID-19 testing.

Moreover, the stolen data often contains sensitive information about students and staff. When this data is leaked online, it can lead to serious privacy violations. Furthermore, the recovery process can be costly and time-consuming, putting additional strain on the affected institutions.

How Trust Group Can Help

Trust Group, with its expertise in cybersecurity, can play a crucial role in enhancing the security of schools. As part of an experienced team, schools can benefit from shared resources and expertise. Trust Group can help schools implement robust cybersecurity measures, provide training to staff, and ensure that schools have up-to-date and tested backups.

Moreover, Trust Group can assist schools in developing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. This includes planning and rehearsing ransomware scenarios, which is crucial for ensuring a swift and effective response in the event of an attack.

5 Steps To Get Schools Started

1. Effective Vulnerability Management and Patching Procedures: Regularly update and patch all systems to ensure they have the latest security patches. This reduces the number of vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit.
2. Secure Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Services Using Multi-Factor Authentication: Implementing multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for attackers to gain unauthorised access, however ideally use VPNs instead of Remote Desktop Servers.
3. Install and Enable Antivirus Software: Antivirus software can detect and block many types of malware, including ransomware.
4. Implement Mechanisms to Prevent Phishing Attacks: Training staff on cybersecurity can help them avoid falling for phishing attacks, which are a common way for attackers to spread ransomware.
5. Disable or Constrain Scripting Environments and Macros: Many ransomware attacks exploit scripting environments and macros. Disabling or constraining these can help prevent such attacks.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure. By taking these steps, schools can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to ransomware attacks.

Conclusion

The threat of ransomware attacks on UK schools is real and growing. However, with the right measures in place, schools can significantly enhance their cybersecurity. Trust Group stands ready to assist schools in this endeavour, helping to ensure a safe and secure learning environment for all.

Further Reading:
Further targeted ransomware attacks on the UK education sector
Schools hit by cyber attack and documents leaked
School cyber-attack affects 40,000 pupils’ email
School cyber-attack affects 40,000 pupils’ email
UK Schools Hit by Mass Leak of Confidential Data
Cyber security breaches survey 2023: education institutions annex
Multiple schools hit by Vice Society ransomware attack