The new school year is almost here. Teachers are setting up classrooms, planning lessons, and getting ready to welcome students back. As you prepare for the year ahead, there’s one more thing worth adding to your checklist: cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity is an essential part of any pre-service presentations as schools continue to be a favorite target for cybercriminals because they store valuable information like student records, payroll data, and employee information. The good news, you can teach your staff a few simple habits that will go a long way.
1. Lock Your Computer Every Time You Step Away
Classrooms are busy, and it only takes a few seconds for someone to access an unlocked computer. It is important for your staff to make it a habit to lock your screen whenever they leave their desk—even if they’re just helping a student across the room.
- Windows: Windows + L
- Mac: Control + Command + Q
- Chromebook: Search + L
It takes one second and helps keep private data private.
2. Slow Down Before You Click
Phishing emails are still one of the easiest ways hackers get into school networks. Staff should be wary of all emails that require you to click a link immediately, verify your account, or open an unexpected document. Teach users to pause for a moment. If something feels off, don’t click, report it or verify the request another way. When in doubt, check it out.
3. Be Careful with “Free” Apps
Staff may find free tools can be helpful, but some collect more student data than you realize. Rather than blocking all apps, you should have a vetting process for your staff including network safety and data privacy. MOREnet members can join MOSPA to help with the data privacy vetting. Protecting student privacy is everyone’s responsibility.
4. Use Good Password Hygiene
Your staff may be all too familiar with complex passwords, but once they build their perfect password they tend to reuse it across all their accounts. Teach staff the importance of unique passwords. With passwords, teach them long, strong, and unique. Password managers simplify that. MOREnet has consortium discounts you can take advantage of.
One Last Tip
Wrap up your staff training by introducing Have I Been Pwned. Staff can enter their personal email address to see whether it has been involved in a known data breach. It’s a quick, eye-opening reminder that cybersecurity matters at school and at home.
A few simple habits can make a big difference. Here’s to a fantastic school year—and a safe, secure one, too!