The numbers are staggering: the average number of weekly cyber attacks per organization rose to 1,673 in 2024, a 44% increase compared to the previous year, according to Check Point’s The State of Cyber Security 2025 report.
Among all sectors, education has been hit hardest, enduring a 75% year-over-year increase to a shocking 3,574 weekly attacks. Educational institutions have become prime targets for cyber criminals due to the wealth of personal information they manage. Most attacks originate from email (68%), with web-delivered attacks accounting for 32%, often involving malicious frameworks like FakeUpdates.
The recent PowerSchool data breach illustrates the severe consequences of such threats, highlighting the need for proactive and reactive measures to protect students, teachers, and their families from identity theft and other long-term risks. While institutions strive to bolster their defenses, parents and educators can take proactive steps to protect themselves and those they care for.
Proactive Measures to Safeguard Personal Information
- Freeze Credit Reports
Place a freeze on your children’s (and your own) credit reports with all three major credit bureaus. This is a critical step in preventing unauthorized use of their identities.
Equifax
Transunion
Experian - Adopt Strong Password Practices
Use strong, unique passwords for every account and website. A password manager can simplify this process by securely generating and storing passwords. - Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Strengthen the security of your online accounts by enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) wherever it’s available. MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring not just a password but also a second form of verification—such as a code sent to your phone or email, or even a fingerprint scan. This ensures that even if someone steals your password, they still can’t access your account without the additional verification step. - Educate on Phishing and Social Engineering
Teach your family and students to identify phishing attempts and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unexpected attachments. - Install Endpoint Security on your Home Laptops & Desktops
Comprehensive endpoint security solutions like ZoneAlarm by Check Point deliver enterprise-level protection for your home devices, safeguarding laptops and desktops against malware, phishing attempts, and unauthorized access with the same robust security trusted by businesses worldwide. - Keep Your Software Updated
Regularly update all your software, including operating systems, applications, and security tools, to ensure they have the latest patches and fixes. Cyber criminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to systems. By enabling automatic updates, you can protect your devices from these known security risks and stay a step ahead of potential threats. - Stay Informed About Cyber security
Keep up to date on best practices and new threats. Share these insights with students and colleagues to foster a culture of awareness.
https://www.cisa.gov/secure-our-world/secure-yourself-your-family
Reactive Steps After a Breach
- Monitor Credit and Identity Theft Alerts
Enroll in identity theft monitoring services, especially if they are offered by the affected institution. Monitor credit reports regularly for unusual activity.
https://www.identitytheft.gov/Warning-Signs-of-Identity-Theft
https://www.annualcreditreport.com/ - Change All Passwords
If you suspect a breach, promptly update all your online account passwords, making sure each one is strong, unique, and secure. While you’re at it, enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on any accounts that support it. - Notify Authorities and Organizations
Report fraudulent activity to the Federal Trade Commission at gov and inform your bank or other affected institutions. - Secure Your Digital Footprint
Regularly review and limit the personal information shared online. Encourage students to do the same to minimize their exposure.
Families and educators are essential in protecting sensitive information from cyber threats, and these proactive and reactive measures provide a clear path forward. From freezing credit and enabling MFA to staying informed about emerging risks, every action makes a difference. Cyber security is more than just a technical challenge—it’s a shared responsibility. Together, we can minimize vulnerabilities, reduce risks, and ensure that educational institutions remain safe spaces for learning, growth, and innovation.