Securing Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability: 4 Methods Schools Can Employ for a Strong CIA Triad
In the digital age, ensuring the security and privacy of student data has become a critical concern for school districts across the nation. Here's a guide to help districts navigate this complex landscape.
Firstly, it's essential to understand that information security encompasses policies and procedures related to security, while cybersecurity focuses on the technical, hands-on aspect of protecting and preventing damage to electronic resources. Districts must distinguish between these two vital areas.
School ransomware attacks are a growing threat, but with five specific tips, these incidents can be prevented and survived:
- Regularly update software and systems.
- Implement strong password policies.
- Conduct routine security audits.
- Educate staff and students about cybersecurity best practices.
- Establish a response plan for potential security incidents.
Student privacy has grown in importance in recent years, and all school districts, regardless of size, location, technological skills, or budget, are at risk of a security incident or data breach. Digital data is more prone to misuse by "bad actors" than paper, making it crucial for districts to prioritise privacy and security.
Leadership involvement is essential in establishing accountability for security and privacy in school districts. By making security and privacy relevant to teachers, students, and parents, districts can increase their vigilance.
School social media accounts can put student privacy at risk. Districts should carefully manage these accounts and ensure they comply with privacy regulations. Working with vendors that value privacy and security is also crucial for protecting student data.
Many districts feel they lack the capacity or resources to handle privacy and security issues effectively. Organisations like CoSN (Consortium for School Networking) and the Student Data Privacy Consortium can provide valuable resources to help districts start with one or two initiatives and gradually build a privacy program.
Reducing the number of applications in use on campus can help improve security and privacy. Districts should be aware of the extent of data sharing with vendors and outside parties and work towards establishing trust and confidence in handling student data.
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability (CIA Triad) are important factors in school district security. Ensuring the confidentiality of student data, maintaining its integrity, and ensuring its availability when needed are all key to a robust security strategy.
Unfortunately, the search results do not provide specific information about the leading individuals in school districts responsible for student data safety and privacy or related programs. However, leadership in this area is vital for ensuring the protection of student data.
Lastly, it's crucial for districts that don't know where to start to reach out to peers and organisations for guidance and support. By working together, school districts can create a safer, more secure digital environment for students.
