Securing Higher Ed: Battling the Surge in Ransomware Attacks

In today’s tech-driven world, higher education institutions face a concerning surge in ransomware attacks. A 2023 survey revealed 79 percent of higher education providers experienced such attacks, with 59 percent reporting business and revenue losses. While the actual number of victims remains undisclosed, these malicious incidents pose a serious threat, jeopardizing operations, sensitive data, and financial stability. As digital reliance continues to grow, robust cybersecurity and effective incident response plans are crucial. This blog explores the rising frequency of cyberattacks in higher education and their far-reaching consequences, and ultimately provides essential insights on how institutions, faculty, staff, and students can safeguard themselves against this growing threat.

The Escalation of Ransomware Attacks

Traditionally, ransomware attacks involve the infiltration of malicious software that encrypts a system’s data, rendering it inaccessible until a ransom is paid to the attackers, usually in cryptocurrency. The education sector, particularly higher ed institutions, has become a prime target due to its vast repositories of valuable information. The allure of lucrative payoffs has fueled the escalation of attacks, as financial motives drive most attackers. Even so, ransomware attacks are evolving, with a notable shift towards extortion rather than encryption. Instead of encrypting the system’s data, cybercriminals are opting to steal valuable information and then leverage it for extortion, threatening to release the data unless a ransom is paid. According to Joe Potchanant, director of the cybersecurity and privacy program at EDUCAUSE, over half of targeted institutions are paying ransoms, underscoring the prevalence of these incidents. Despite not having the same financial resources as more traditional targets like banks or healthcare organizations, higher education institutions are appealing due to the wealth of sensitive data they store. Unfortunately, the limited budgets allocated for IT and cybersecurity at many institutions leave them vulnerable and lacking the necessary defenses to combat these evolving and sophisticated forms of cyberattacks.

Effects of Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware attacks on higher education institutions can have a cascade of detrimental effects, impacting various aspects of the institution’s functioning. Some more notable ones include:

- Disruption of Operations: The impact of a successful ransomware attack on a higher education institution extends far beyond financial losses. The disruption of operations can be crippling, affecting everything from administrative functions to academic activities. Coursework, research projects, and student records may be rendered inaccessible, leading to chaos and hindering the smooth functioning of the institution.

- Compromised Sensitive Data: Institutions store a wealth of sensitive information, including personal data of students and faculty, proprietary research, and financial records. Ransomware attacks jeopardize the confidentiality and integrity of this information, raising concerns about identity theft, privacy breaches, and potential misuse of intellectual property.

- Data Encryption and Inaccessibility: The primary goal of ransomware is to encrypt an institution’s data, making it inaccessible to authorized users. This can cripple essential functions, including academic processes, research activities, and administrative tasks.

- Financial Consequences The financial ramifications of a ransomware attack on an educational institution can be staggering. Not only must the institution consider the ransom demand, but there are also costs associated with investigating the breach, restoring systems, and implementing enhanced cybersecurity measures. Even if the ransom is paid, only 2 percent of institutions get back all of their data; most rely on backups in the aftermath of an attack.

- Reputational Damage: News of a ransomware attack can damage the institution’s reputation. The loss of trust from students, parents, and stakeholders may be challenging to regain, impacting enrollment, partnerships, and overall institutional credibility, further exacerbating the financial impact.

Vital Measures for Robust Cybersecurity

To lessen the risks associated with ransomware attacks, higher education institutions must prioritize cybersecurity. Investing in state-of-the-art security technologies, regular security audits, and the implementation of best practices is essential. This includes securing networks, regularly updating software, and educating staff and students on cybersecurity awareness. Other ways to be prepared, include:

- Provide Regular Cybersecurity Training: Conduct regular cybersecurity training sessions for staff, faculty, and students to increase awareness of phishing scams, malware, and security best practices.

- Implement Endpoint Protection: Utilize advanced antivirus and anti-malware solutions to protect endpoints such as computers and devices from ransomware threats.

- Keep Systems and Software Updated: Ensure that all software, including operating systems and applications, is regularly updated with the latest security patches to address vulnerabilities.

- Establish Data Backup and Recovery Practices: Regularly back up critical data and ensure that backups are stored in an isolated environment. Implement a robust data recovery plan to minimize downtime in case of an attack.

- Strengthen Network Security: Implement strong network security measures, including firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and virtual private networks (VPNs) to safeguard against unauthorized access.

- Limit Access Controls: Enforce the principle of least privilege, ensuring that users have the minimum level of access necessary for their roles. This reduces the potential impact of a ransomware attack.

- Use Multi-Factor Authentication: Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security, requiring users to provide multiple forms of identification before accessing sensitive systems or data.

- Build an Incident Response Plan: Develop and regularly update an incident response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in the event of a ransomware attack. Test the plan through simulated exercises to ensure effectiveness.

As ransomware threats loom over higher education institutions, it’s clear that it’s time to get serious about securing digital spaces. The consequences of these attacks stretch far beyond financial losses—but there is a way forward. By combining these measures, higher education institutions can significantly enhance their cybersecurity posture and reduce the risk of falling victim to ransomware attacks. Regular monitoring and education, adaptation to evolving threats, and a commitment to a culture of cybersecurity awareness are key elements of a successful cybersecurity strategy.

This guest blog is authored by Jenzabar partner Nelnet. Nelnet Campus Commerce delivers higher education technology for payment options, unlimited. The secure payment solutions for higher education are PCI Level 1 validated and integrate with every major ERP. From payment processing and refunds, to payment plans and online storefronts, Nelnet Campus Commerce processes payments, campus wide.