Chicago-based Keeper Security on Tuesday, declared globally as Safer Internet Day, took a stand against rising cyber threats to educational institutions, highlighting the growing risks faced by schools and universities. Amid increasing cyber attacks, such as the 2024 Mobile Guardian breach affecting thousands of student devices and the PowerSchool breach compromising sensitive data, Keeper emphasized the need for urgent action to safeguard students and staff.
According to Keeper’s recent report, Cybersecurity in Schools: Safeguarding Students in the Digital Era, while 74 percent of parents feel confident in their child’s school’s cybersecurity, just 21 percent receive guidance on secure password management—a crucial component of online safety. Furthermore, many schools lack dedicated IT resources and security training, leaving students vulnerable to attacks like ransomware.
Keeper’s response, the Flex Your Cyber initiative, provides school administrators and educators with vital tools, knowledge, and strategies to build more secure digital environments. This initiative, supported by the National Cybersecurity Alliance, KnowBe4, and others, offers resources for securing sensitive student data and fostering stronger cybersecurity habits among students and families.
Darren Guccione, CEO and co-founder of Keeper Security, stressed the importance of cybersecurity in education, stating, “It’s a fundamental part of ensuring student safety and the protection of their sensitive personal information.”
Keeper’s advocacy for stronger security practices includes adopting password managers, enforcing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and implementing regular cybersecurity training. Through its ongoing commitment to improving security in the education sector, Keeper aims to help institutions build resilient systems that protect against evolving cyber threats.
