Cybersecurity for K-12 School Districts

Acture Solutions offers a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity solutions tailored for K-12 schools, designed to be secure, simple, and budget-friendly. These solutions include:

• Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Systems installed and managed to search for any suspicious activities across all devices on the school’s network.
• Managed Detection and Response (MDR): A service that provides ongoing monitoring and response to threats.
  Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): An additional layer of security to ensure that only authorized users can access the school’s systems.
• Cloud Solutions: This includes cloud security and management to ensure that data stored in the cloud is protected.
  Network and IT Infrastructure Security: To safeguard the school’s network and its infrastructure, including wired and wireless networking and internet service.
• Device Lifecycle Management: Covering all Microsoft, Apple, and Google devices and offering Hardware-as-a-Service (HaaS) to manage the lifecycle of the school's fleet of devices.

Cybersecurity is crucial for K-12 education because:

• Protection of Sensitive Data: Schools hold sensitive information about students, staff, and their families that must be protected from unauthorized access.
• Continuity of Educational Services: Cyberattacks can disrupt the educational process, affecting learning and teaching.
• Compliance and Trust: Schools need to comply with legal and regulatory requirements for data protection and maintain the trust of parents, students, and staff.
• Increasing Threat Landscape: With the rise in cybercrime, schools are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals, making robust cybersecurity measures essential.

The most common cyber threats faced by K-12 schools include:

• Ransomware: Malicious software that encrypts the school’s data, demanding a ransom for its release.
• Phishing Attacks: Deceptive emails or messages designed to steal sensitive information.
• Data Breaches: Unauthorized access to the school's data, leading to the theft or exposure of sensitive information.
• Malware and Viruses: Software designed to harm the school’s systems or steal data.
• Insider Threats: Threats from within the organization, such as disgruntled employees or students with access to the school's systems.

To improve their cybersecurity, K-12 schools can:

• Implement EDR and MDR Solutions: To detect and respond to threats across all devices on the network.
• Adopt Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): To add an extra layer of security for accessing systems.
• Secure Cloud Storage: Ensure that data stored in the cloud is protected with robust security measures.
• Strengthen Network Security: Secure the school's network and IT infrastructure against unauthorized access.
• Manage Device Lifecycles: Keep all devices used within the school updated and secure.
• Educate Staff and Students: Raise awareness about cyber threats and promote safe online behaviors.