How Data Loss Prevention Can Protect K–12 Schools

The evolution of cyberattacks has seen a shift from simple ransomware attacks to more sophisticated data extortion practices. Attackers have resorted to publishing stolen data, selling it on the dark web or continuing to extort victims even after receiving payments. The financial implications of these attacks are substantial, with ransom demands ranging from as low as $3,000 to as high as $50 million in 2022, a significant increase from previous years, he says.

Such statistics require district leaders to move beyond a state of alarm to a “state of urgency,” Fadhil says.

Addressing Common Challenges with DLP Solutions

K–12 IT decision-makers face a multitude of challenges in the realm of cybersecurity, including phishing, social engineering, insider threats, mobile device security and regulatory compliance. DLP plays a critical role in addressing these challenges by identifying or classifying sensitive data, restricting access to it and encrypting it when necessary. This safeguards the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data.

Wofford highlights that people remain the top attack vector, and DLP helps schools defend against both malicious and inadvertent data leaks. In addition, DLP solutions are crucial to ensure regulatory compliance and efficient incident response.

MORE ON EDTECH: The National Cybersecurity Alliance’s executive director tackles phishing.

Most core features and functions of DLP solutions are not unique to K–12 institutions. They typically include custom data detectors, application control and network activity detection.

“One area that may be unique to K–12 schools is user behavior monitoring, which considers insider threat prevention and detection,” Wofford says. “Schools have a unique environment with a mix of user types and signature behaviors on the network. It is hard to think of another industry that has multiple user classifications such as teachers, students, administrators, maintenance workers, etc., that change locations within the network on a frequent basis, accessing different data types.”

Factors to Consider When Selecting a DLP Solution

DLP technology can seamlessly integrate with existing IT infrastructure and educational systems, Wofford says. It can be incorporated into the network, endpoint, web, email systems, and identity and access management for comprehensive data protection. DLP technology’s integration with firewalls, routers, switches and mobile device management solutions ensures real-time monitoring and enforcement, safeguarding sensitive data effectively.

Implementing and maintaining DLP solutions involves various costs, including licensing, hardware and software, implementation, training, ongoing support and necessary IT staff. These costs must be considered to ensure that the chosen DLP strategy aligns with the school’s budget and resources, Wofford adds.

“When evaluating and identifying a DLP solution for their school system, K–12 IT decision-makers should make sure the proposed solutions map to their institutional goals and align with their cloud strategy,” he says. “K–12 decision-makers are pulled in multiple directions, so it is critical to define what success will look like, such as user adoption or training.”

He also suggests that understanding the vendor’s reputation and capacity to offer support is essential.

One of the key factors when evaluating DLP solutions is the need for planning. IT leaders must assess their infrastructure, identify weaknesses and determine their capabilities before diving into the market, Fadhil says. The goal is to achieve consistency in defense across all elements of the IT environment, especially in a world where access to data is required from virtually anywhere and on any device, he adds.

KEEP READING: Four tips to improve data loss prevention in K–12 schools.

Future Trends and Innovations in DLP Solutions for K–12

Experts agree the issue of cybersecurity in schools will continue to be a key concern. It received heightened attention in August when the White House announced new actions and commitments to strengthen cyberdefenses in schools.

Fadhil, who attended the announcement with some of his Palo Alto colleagues, says the event highlighted the level of urgency.

Fadhil acknowledges that funding and workforce challenges are significant hurdles for K–12 institutions, and it’s crucial to select solutions that integrate seamlessly with their existing cybersecurity infrastructure. By adopting a platform approach and incorporating automation, schools can enhance their cybersecurity posture while maintaining a focus on Education and student well-being, he says.