How Schools Can Prevent Cyberattacks: Lessons from Ransomware Incidents

Prevention Is Better Than Cure: Safeguarding Schools Against Cyberattacks

The ransomware attack on Blacon High School in Chester, UK, has sent ripples of concern across the educational sector. Occurring in January 2025, the incident forced the school to close its doors for two days, disrupt its IT systems, and pivot to remote learning via Google Classroom. This attack is not an isolated case; it follows a worrying trend of cyberattacks targeting educational and public sector organisations, as evidenced by a similar recent attack on Gateshead Council. These events underscore the importance of adopting a proactive approach to cybersecurity—a principle that should resonate across all sectors, but particularly within education, where resources are often stretched thin.

I believe that incidents like these highlight the critical need to move from a reactive to a preventive approach. Below, I delve into the implications of such attacks, the lessons we can draw from them, and actionable steps that schools and similar institutions can take to fortify their defences against cyber threats.

Understanding the Risks and Impact of Ransomware in Education

Ransomware attacks are designed to encrypt critical files and systems, effectively locking organisations out of their own data until a ransom is paid. The consequences for schools, colleges, and universities can be severe, ranging from disrupted learning environments to compromised sensitive information, including student and staff records. For Blacon High School, the immediate impact was logistical: a sudden closure and a shift to virtual classrooms. However, the longer-term repercussions—such as data recovery costs, reputational damage, and potential legal ramifications—could be far more detrimental.

The education sector is particularly vulnerable due to several factors:

1. Budget Constraints: Many schools operate under tight budgets, which can limit their ability to invest in robust cybersecurity measures.
2. Outdated Systems: Legacy IT systems that lack modern security features are often still in use.
3. High Data Value: Schools store large amounts of sensitive data, making them lucrative targets for attackers.
4. Human Error: With staff and students accessing networks from various devices, the risk of accidental breaches through phishing or malware increases significantly.

Real-World Examples: Lessons Learned

While the Blacon High School incident is recent, it is far from unique. Globally, educational institutions have faced a rising tide of cyberattacks. For example:

• The Harris Federation (2021): This network of schools in London faced a ransomware attack that disrupted IT services across 50 schools, forcing them to suspend remote learning during a critical period. (Ref: Click here)
• Baltimore County Public Schools (2020): In the United States, a ransomware attack shut down the school district’s entire network, impacting over 115,000 students and requiring months to recover fully. (Ref: Click here)
• University of Maastricht (2019): The Dutch university paid €200,000 to regain access to its systems after a ransomware attack crippled its operations. (Ref: Click here)

Each of these cases demonstrates that the consequences of inaction or insufficient preparation can be dire. However, they also offer invaluable lessons on how proactive measures can mitigate risks.

Preventative Measures: Building a Resilient Cybersecurity Framework

To prevent cyberattacks, schools must adopt a layered approach to cybersecurity, combining technology, education, and policy. Below are some of the most effective strategies:

1. Regular Data Backups

Schools must ensure that data backups are performed routinely and stored securely, preferably offsite or in the cloud. By maintaining recent, accessible backups, organisations can recover their data without paying ransoms. Importantly, these backups should be tested periodically to confirm their reliability.

2. Staff and Student Training

Human error remains one of the weakest links in cybersecurity. Training programmes should educate staff and students on recognising phishing attempts, avoiding suspicious links, and adhering to secure password practices. Regular refresher sessions can help maintain awareness.

3. Up-to-Date Security Systems

Cybersecurity tools, such as antivirus software and firewalls, must be kept up to date. Schools should also prioritise patching known vulnerabilities in operating systems and applications. Automated patch management solutions can simplify this process.

4. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Implementing MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors to access systems. This significantly reduces the likelihood of unauthorised access, even if passwords are compromised.

5. Network Segmentation

By dividing networks into separate segments, schools can limit the spread of malware in the event of a breach. For example, administrative systems should be isolated from student networks to minimise potential damage.

6. Incident Response Plans

A well-defined incident response plan enables schools to act swiftly in the event of a cyberattack. This should include steps for identifying the breach, containing the threat, notifying stakeholders, and recovering systems. Regular drills can ensure that staff know their roles during an actual incident.

7. Third-Party Risk Management

Many schools rely on third-party vendors for software, IT support, or cloud services. It’s crucial to vet these providers thoroughly and ensure they adhere to robust cybersecurity standards.

The Cost of Inaction

The financial impact of ransomware attacks can be staggering. Beyond ransom payments (which should never be encouraged), schools may face costs related to forensic investigations, system rebuilds, and legal liabilities. There is also the intangible cost of eroded trust among parents, students, and staff.

Investing in cybersecurity, on the other hand, can be remarkably cost-effective. A strong security posture not only reduces the likelihood of successful attacks but also ensures faster recovery and minimal disruption if an incident does occur. Prevention is, without doubt, far cheaper and more effective than cure.

A Call to Action

As cyber threats continue to evolve, educational institutions must recognise that cybersecurity is not a one-time investment but an ongoing commitment. While no system can be 100% secure, adopting a proactive and layered approach significantly reduces risks and ensures that schools are better prepared to handle potential incidents.

Let the ransomware attack on Blacon High School serve as a wake-up call. By taking action now, schools can safeguard not just their operations but also the futures of the students they serve.

For fellow professionals in the education and IT sectors, I encourage you to prioritise cybersecurity in your strategic planning. Together, we can build a more secure digital environment for everyone.

If you have insights or experiences to share, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Let’s work collaboratively to create a safer future.