Ransomware in Schools: 2025 Threat Update & Prevention Guide

Ransomware is a combination of the words "ransom" and "malware," while "malware" is short for "malicious software."

To put it simply: Malware is the umbrella term for any intrusive software (like viruses, trojans, or spyware) designed to damage and destroy computers and computer systems. Ransomware is a specific, highly aggressive type of malware that has become the primary digital threat to the education sector in 2025.

Why Schools are the Primary Target

Ransomware is a growing crisis for schools. In recent years, the education and training sector has consistently reported more ransomware incidents to cyber security authorities than almost any other industry.

Why? Schools hold sensitive data on minors, often rely on legacy IT infrastructure, and operate with limited cybersecurity budgets. This makes them a "high-value, soft target" for cybercriminals.

How Ransomware Works in 2025

Traditionally, a ransomware attack would simply encrypt (lock up) the data held on a school network, rendering servers and devices unusable.

However, the threat has evolved. In 2025, we face "Double Extortion" attacks. Criminals don't just lock your data; they steal it first. If the school refuses to pay the ransom to unlock their systems, the criminals threaten to leak sensitive student and staff records online.

• On-Premises Risks: Malware spreads through local servers, affecting admin blocks, printers, and interactive whiteboards.

• Cloud Vulnerabilities: While cloud providers (like Google or Microsoft) are secure, schools are vulnerable if staff accounts are compromised. If a hacker steals a teacher's login credentials, they can access cloud data directly.

Once the attack executes, the school cannot access its own data. The criminals then demand a ransom—often running into the hundreds of thousands of dollars or Bitcoin—to release the decryption key and promise not to publish the stolen data.

How Does Ransomware Enter a School?

Like burglars, cybercriminals look for unlocked windows. They enter the school network through "vulnerabilities"—weaknesses in software or human error. Understanding these entry points is the first line of defense.

In 2025, the most common entry points are phishing emails (which use AI to look incredibly realistic) and unpatched software.

5 Vital Steps for School Staff

Cybersecurity is a team sport. Here is how every staff member can help protect the school network:

1. Spot the "Urgency" in Emails: Be skeptical of emails that pressure you to act immediately (e.g., "Click here to keep your account active"). AI-driven phishing emails are harder to spot, so always verify the sender before clicking links.

2. Keep Devices Lean: Remove old and unused software from your devices, including mobile phones used for work. Every unused app is a potential open door for hackers.

3. Beware of Public Wi-Fi: Avoid logging into school systems while on public transport or in cafes. Public Wi-Fi is often insecure. If you must work remotely, use a secure connection or a VPN.

4. Separate Personal and Professional: Unless explicitly permitted, do not access school software or emails on personal devices. Personal devices often lack the enterprise-grade security protections found on school-managed hardware.

5. Update Everything: If you see a prompt to update your software or operating system, do it immediately. These updates often contain "patches" for security holes that hackers are actively trying to exploit.

5 Critical Measures for School Administrators

For IT leads and school leadership, the defense strategy must be proactive:

• Enforce Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): This is non-negotiable in 2025. MFA stops 99% of automated attacks. Ensure it is enabled for all staff email and remote access accounts.

• Implement Immutable Backups: Ensure you have backups that are stored offline or in a state where they cannot be altered or deleted. If your network is ransomed, a clean backup is your only card to play without paying.

• Patch Management: Apply the latest security updates to all routers, servers, and devices immediately. If a device is too old to receive security updates (End of Life), it must be removed from the network.

• Zero Trust & Least Privilege: Review user permissions. A teacher does not need administrative access to the entire network. Restricting access limits the damage if one account is compromised.

• Commission an Independent Audit: You cannot mark your own homework. Commission an independent review of your systems to test your firewalls, audit your cybersecurity culture, and simulate a phishing attack to see how staff respond.

Secure Your School Today

Don't wait for a crisis to test your defenses. Get in touch with us today to schedule a vulnerability assessment and see how we can help protect your students, staff, and reputation.