Cybersecurity in Schools: Beyond Antivirus – The Computeam Way

Strengthening school defences in a digital world

The modern classroom is more connected than ever, with schools of all sizes relying on cloud platforms, digital tools and online communication to support learning outcomes. But as technology advances, so too do the potential risks. 

Cyber threats continue to be a growing concern for educational institutions in the UK, with schools increasingly targeted by ransomware, phishing scams and data breaches. According to 2024 cybersecurity breaches survey, 52% of primary schools and 71% of secondary schools in the UK identified a breach or attack in the past year. 

As reported by a leading Danish cybersecurity firm, Heimdal Security, the cause for the steady rise in incidents can be attributed to a series of factors: including reduced budgets that can’t stretch to updating vulnerable devices and their software, a lack of cyber awareness training and underfunded and undersupported in-house IT teams who might otherwise be able to add layers of security or create robust cybersecurity policies within the school.

The bottom line, protecting schools against ongoing cyber risks requires a strategic approach that goes beyond installing the latest antivirus software and hoping for the best.

Here at Computeam, we provide advanced security solutions designed specifically for the education sector. Covering data encryption and managed backups to multi-factor authentication, our services ensure that schools can operate securely while protecting sensitive data.

Protecting school data with advanced encryption

Schools are required to store vast amounts of personal and confidential information, including student records, staff details and financial data – all of which are highly vulnerable and a potential target for interception and misuse. 

Computeam’s encryption services ensure that sensitive data is safeguarded and accessible only to authorised users. By securing emails and documents, schools can prevent data leaks and maintain compliance with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) requirements. Whether that’s using Microsoft 365, Google Workspace or on-premises systems, Computeam helps schools implement strong encryption policies to suit their operational needs.

Reliable managed backups for data recovery

Cyberattacks can strike at any time, and ransomware is one of the biggest threats facing schools today. Without a secure backup system, a school risks losing essential data, disrupting learning and facing costly recovery processes. Computeam provides managed backup solutions that ensure data is always recoverable, no matter the circumstances.

With a combination of cloud-to-cloud and on-premises backups, Computeam helps schools build a resilient data recovery plan – meaning, in the event of a cyberattack, accidental deletion or hardware failure, vital information can be restored quickly. Our backup services also include disaster recovery planning, helping schools to operate with minimal downtime.

Strengthening security with multi-factor authentication

Passwords alone are no longer enough to protect school accounts from unauthorised access. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security, requiring users to verify their identity through a second step, such as single-use backup codes, email verification, authentication apps or biometric scans.

Computeam works alongside schools to integrate MFA across all Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace platforms, thus reducing the risk of compromised accounts. Implementing role-based access controls means that schools can make sure that sensitive information is available only to those who need it – measures that significantly decrease the likelihood of data breaches and account takeovers.

A holistic approach to cybersecurity for schools

Every school has unique security challenges, which is why a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work. Computeam conducts cybersecurity audits to assess existing strengths, identify vulnerabilities and recommend improvements. Our solutions align with best practices in education IT, ensuring compliance with Cyber Essentials Certification and other security standards.

Many cyber incidents occur due to human error; whether that’s clicking on a malicious link or using weak, easily intercepted passwords. To address the issues of knowledge gaps of best cyber security practices within both teaching and non-teaching staff, Computeam’s Learning Locker provides CPD-certified cybersecurity training, equipping staff with the skills and awareness to recognise threats, respond effectively and reduce risk.