Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a perfect time to address the risks associated with the increased use of edtech in K-12 schools. While technology offers immense benefits to education, it also introduces significant security challenges that IT directors must be prepared to face.

The Risks of EdTech in Schools

As more apps and platforms are integrated into school systems, the danger of security breaches multiplies. Many of the apps used by students and teachers may not be fully vetted or controlled by district IT departments, leaving networks exposed to cyber threats. Students or staff may log in from multiple devices or on unsecured networks, putting sensitive data at further risk. This, along with the proliferation of shadow apps across school networks, poses a critical question: How can school IT teams ensure their systems are secure?

Cybercriminals Targeting EdTech

Schools are now the second-most targeted institutions for cyberattacks. The pressure on IT departments has doubled over the past five years, given the increasing complexity of managing networks, devices, and apps. Ransomware attacks, too, have become a growing concern, as threat actors exploit vulnerabilities in schools where multiple users access the network from various devices. Additionally, phishing schemes are a constant threat, exposing systems to attacks should students and staff inadvertently click on malicious links.

The Solution is Lumen Touch

Lumen Touch’s all-in-one enterprise management system is built on a secure Linux operating system and is remotely managed to ensure that updates and configurations follow industry best practices. We design our services with the intention of isolating risk and standardizing security protocols. By operating on a zero-trust basis – treating every network as potentially hostile – we protect your school’s data from threats, whether they arise from inside or outside your network.

At Lumen Touch, we take a proactive approach to data security. Our hosting services employ full-disk encryption, and we offer end-to-end encryption for all client data, whether in transit or at rest. We manage daily encrypted backups stored off-site, ensuring swift data recovery in case of user error or hardware failure. Whether you host with us or have your own server, we provide the peace of mind that comes with knowing your data is safe and easily restorable.

Protecting EdTech for the Future

As edtech becomes increasingly fundamental to education, managing the risks associated with its use is no longer optional; it’s essential. Lumen Touch offers 24/7/365 remote monitoring of your school’s systems, tracking an average of 160 data points per site to catch potential issues before they impact your operations.

At Lumen Touch, we prioritize student safety and data security, ensuring that technology enhances education without compromising on security. Contact us to learn how we can support your school’s IT needs and protect your digital infrastructure.