Understanding FERPA, CIPA, Other K–12 Student Data Privacy Laws Protecting student data is paramount in today’s ever-evolving education landscape. With the increasing reliance on technology and cloud-based solutions in K–12 schools, understanding the intricacies of student data privacy laws is crucial. In this article, we’ll delve into the key aspects of laws like FERPA, CIPA, and NY State Ed-Law 2-D …
FCC Proposes New Funding Initiative for K–12 Cybersecurity
The Federal Communications Commission’s chairwoman states that the program, valued at $200 million over three years, will operate independently from E-rate funding. FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has recently unveiled a proposition for a pilot program spanning three years and amounting to $200 million. This initiative aims to provide funding for the integration of cybersecurity technologies within K–12 schools and public …
If you’ve ever said this, you’re ASKING to be hacked!
Want to know what every hacker hopes you believe? “We’re just a school…nobody wants to hack us.” This is the #1 reason why most schools get hacked. They dismiss the importance of IT security because they’re only a “school.” This is a lazy, irresponsible excuse. One thing is for certain: NO ONE is immune to cybercrime. In fact, one in …
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 …
Everything You Need to Know About the $1B Homeland Cybersecurity Grant for K-12 Schools
The State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program can be used to address cybersecurity risks or threats on information systems owned or operated by school districts to support best cybersecurity practices, such as multi-factor authentication, enhanced logging, and data encryption. The cybersecurity funding will be available through the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program, which states can apply for and then …
IT Security Tip: If this type of alert pops up, DON’T click on it!
You’re working at your computer when all of the sudden – BAM! – you get a pop-up notification that your PC is infected with a virus and you must “click here” to run a scan or install antivirus software. This is a common scareware tactic used by hackers to get you to click and download a virus. (You should know …
How to Secure Your Information After a Dark Web Alert
Your credentials have been compromised on the dark web… What are your next steps?! The reality is, once exposed on the dark web, your information can’t ever be completely removed or hidden. You cannot file a complaint or contact a support line to demand your data be removed. You should immediately start taking appropriate steps and measures to correct or …
IT Security Tip: Staying Secure in a Social Media World
The age of social media has let millions of people reconnect and stay up-to-date with family members, friends, ex-in-laws and acquaintances. It also continues to shape how we all communicate with each other. It’s important to keep a few things in mind before you check your newsfeed. There is no delete button on the Internet. Everyone knows how to capture …
LIVE WEBINAR ON 12/13: How to Leverage E-Rate Funding to Boost Your School’s Cybersecurity
Cyber attacks against K-12 schools are on the rise. Do you know how to leverage E-Rate funds to keep your students and staff protected? Without proper cybersecurity measures in place, school networks are vulnerable to attacks and can be shut down. These network breaches can compromise student data and lead to the loss of learning opportunities. While many of the …
