Concerns Rise from Growth in Malware Attacks & Security Threats Directed at Schools
Hikvision on Data Backup to Protect Against Hacks
The Security magazine article, “Back to school ransomware attacks,” details concerns about the growth in malware attacks and other security threats directed at educational facilities.
Ransomware is a diabolical form of malware that is silently installed on a computer or network. If this malware is successfully installed, the victim will receive a notification that their data is encrypted and in order to decrypt their files, a ransom will have to be paid.
From the article: “With the surge of technology use for teaching, learning and continuing school operations in today’s remote environment, schools have become even more vulnerable to cyberattacks. These recent cybersecurity incidents only highlight the need for continuous vigilance as school staff, students, and parents adjust to remote learning.”
The article recommended “proactive controls” to effectively combat ransomware, such as rigorous patch management (software updates) that can make schools harder to hack. “Hackers look for low-hanging fruit and frequently target well known exploitable vulnerabilities …,” said the article. Educating users to identify attacks such as phishing can help reduce cybersecurity risk.
For tips to mitigate malware threats, read this Hikvision article: “Hikvision Senior Director of Cybersecurity Data Backups Tips: An Easy Way to Ensure Against Hacks and Ransomware.”