Cyberattacks are on the rise, and universities are no exception. With so much sensitive information at risk, from student records to cutting-edge research, it’s no surprise that cybercriminals increasingly target universities.
The recent 2024 Cyber Security Breaches survey found that 97% of higher education institutions faced a cyberattack in the past year, 12% higher than the year before.
As an IT leader at a university, you’re likely aware of the pressures to keep everything secure while juggling different demands. But securing your systems doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few simple, straightforward actions can make a big difference.
Understand the risks
Cyber threats are everywhere, and they’re constantly evolving. Hackers, internal threats and even simple mistakes can put your systems at risk. Common attacks include phishing scams, ransomware and data breaches.
Recognising these risks and understanding their impact is the first step towards keeping your organisation safe.
Check your security regularly
Just because you’ve put security measures in place doesn’t mean you’re done. Cyber threats change quickly, so you need to ensure your security keeps up.
One smart approach is to get a cybersecurity assessment from specialists. This is basically an outside expert taking a fresh look at your systems to spot any weaknesses. They’ll test your defences and recommend practical steps to improve.
Doing this regularly will help you stay ahead of any new threats and ensure your security is as strong as it can be.
Adopt recognised standards
It’s always a good idea to follow industry standards. Adopting recognised cybersecurity frameworks like ISO/IEC 27001 or NIST helps set clear guidelines for how to manage your university’s security. By sticking to these standards, you’re not only making sure you’re doing things the right way but also creating a consistent approach across all departments.
Following these guidelines helps ensure that everyone in the organisation is on the same page when it comes to securing data and systems. Plus, you’ll have a stronger defence against any threats that come your way.
Train your staff continuously
It’s easy to assume that your security software will do all the heavy lifting, but the truth is that your staff plays a huge role in keeping things secure. Providing cybersecurity training for your workers is one of the most effective ways to reduce human error, a major contributor to data breaches.
Train your staff to recognise phishing emails, manage passwords properly and follow basic data protection rules. Make it a habit to update their training regularly, keeping them in the loop on new threats and best practices. A well-trained team can make a huge difference in preventing breaches.
Stay ahead of the curve
Cybersecurity is an ongoing effort you can’t afford to neglect, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. By taking a proactive approach, you’ll reduce the chances of falling victim to a cyberattack, ensuring that sensitive information stays secure and your university remains protected.
Keep it simple and stay on top of things, and you’ll be in a strong position to handle whatever comes your way.
