Ransomware Has Disrupted Almost 1,000 Schools in the U.S. This Year
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- By Dawna M. Roberts
- Published: Nov 17, 2021
- Last Updated: Mar 18, 2022
There have been more ransomware attacks in 2021 than in previous years but it is less often reported that there is a huge jump in ransomware attacks hitting schools as well. A recent report revealed that nearly 1,000 U.S. schools have been hit by ransomware attacks this year alone.
Which Schools Were Affected?
So far this year, almost 1,000 schools across the U.S. have suffered a ransomware attack, and in some cases, these attacks have disrupted classes.
Brett Callow, a researcher at New Zealand-based cybersecurity company Emsisoft shared the list which includes 73 school districts, comprising 985 schools. Schools such as the Mesquite Independent School District in Texas, the Haverhill Public Schools in Massachusetts, and the Visalia Unified School District in California were also included in the list.
Ransomware is malicious software designed to extort money from victims. It's one of the most common cybercriminal business models today, thanks to the multimillion-dollar ransoms criminals generate from individuals and corporations. Ransomware attacks are usually intended to be disruptive, and this form of cybercrime is popular in part because it is relatively easy to execute.
The most common tactics involve using malicious software to take advantage of security loopholes or tricking users into downloading malware by pretending to be a trusted source.
What Is Causing The Rise In Ransomware Attacks On Schools?
Groups engaging in ransomware attacks commonly target businesses or individuals in sensitive positions. However, ransomware attacks on service institutions like healthcare and schools are likely increasing because ransomware actors are testing out their skills. Schools pay less in ransom than most sectors, making them lower value targets and lending to the idea that ransomware users are practicing.
The scale and impact of these attacks have increased tremendously in recent years. Everyone is vulnerable, and according to estimates, ransomware will cost the global economy approximately $20 billion in 2021.
What Is Being Done About This?
As cyber threats continue to grow in the months and years ahead, American industries and governments are working closely together to safeguard and reinforce the defences necessary to thwart these attacks.
The increased cybersecurity efforts by governments, law enforcement and the private-public sector have seen some cybercrime operations and revenue streams being disrupted which will hopefully disincentivize attacks.
How Can Students Protect Themselves?
Cyber-attacks have become a serious problem for everyone in recent months and nobody thinks it will ever happen to them. However, if it does happen, the consequences can be extensive, and so each person needs to remain alert. Young students can take steps to ensure that they don’t become victims of an attack.
Check if You’ve Already Been In A Data Breach. Visit IDStrong to find out if you have been involved in a data breach and change those passwords for any accounts that it suggests may have been compromised.
Check the Strength Of Your Passwords. Test the strength of your passwords and remember to choose strong passwords that are longer and harder to guess. One way to do this is by using multiple phrases and sentences which is a great way to create a strong password.
Secure Your Device. If your mobile device is lost or stolen, it could be used to access your personal information, your money or steal your identity and irreplaceable data like photos or messages.
You can secure your devices by:
- Installing anti-virus software.
- Require a password on all devices.
- Disabling automatic connection to networks.
- Enabling remote locking and phone wiping functions.
- Use multi-factor authentication.
- Updating software often.
Back-Up Your Data. Backups are a safe way to ensure that you are not left stranded in the event of a ransomware attack. Backup of devices to external hard drives or CDs.
Run Drills. Just like fire drills, it’s important to create and practice with cyberattack drills to make sure the plan works smoothly. Try restoring your data from only your backups during these exercises. Schools should be sure to print their cyberattack plan or response on paper or store this offline in case a ransomware attack locks them out of the school’s system files.
