In today's digitally connected world, ensuring the security of students' personal data is of utmost importance, particularly as public schools increasingly integrate technology into education. However, these institutions have increasingly become targets for cyberattacks, putting the sensitive information of children at significant risk. As responsible parents and guardians, it is imperative to comprehend the various threats facing our educational systems and take proactive measures to safeguard our children's data.
Cyberattacks targeting public schools manifest in diverse forms, ranging from ransomware attacks and phishing scams to sophisticated data breaches. Also, recently we’ve seen some of the biggest data breaches in history, including a data breach at Change Healthcare and a data breach at National Public Data.
Malicious activities like these can result in unauthorized access to, theft of or tampering with students' personal information, including their names, addresses, Social Security numbers and academic records.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Moreover, the disruptions caused by such cyberattacks can have severe consequences, not only impacting the continuity of learning, but also eroding trust among stakeholders, including schools, parents and students. The good news is that there are some steps you can take to protect your child's data.
1. Advocate for stronger security measures.
Parents can play an active role by engaging with school administrators and policymakers to advocate for the implementation of robust cybersecurity measures. This includes investing in advanced firewalls, encryption technologies and intrusion-detection systems to fortify the school's digital infrastructure against potential threats.
2. Educate students about cybersecurity.
Empowering children with knowledge about cybersecurity best practices is crucial in equipping them to navigate the online world safely. Parents should initiate conversations about creating strong passwords, identifying phishing attempts and exercising caution when sharing personal information on digital platforms.
3. Monitor online activities.
Parents must maintain vigilance over their child's online activities and ensure responsible use of school-provided devices. Implementing parental controls and establishing clear guidelines for internet usage can help mitigate the risk of exposure to malicious content or cyberattacks.
4. Sign your child up for identity theft protection.
Adults aren’t the only ones who need to protect themselves against identity theft, children can be victims, too. Scammers can use their identity to open new lines of credit. This could be detrimental to your child for a number of reasons, but tanking their credit score before they’re even old enough to build credit themselves is a real concern. For extra protection, parents can sign their children up for identity theft protection with their Social Security number.
5. Check your child’s credit report.
It may seem unusual, but consider checking your child’s credit report to make sure there’s no suspicious or unauthorized activity going on. Children cannot apply for credit before the age of 18, so anything before that age should be considered suspicious unless you know exactly what it was for. Parents can also place a credit freeze on their child’s credit files. This will make it more challenging for thieves to open accounts in your child’s name.
6. Stay informed about data privacy policies.
It is essential for parents to stay informed about the data privacy policies implemented by their child's school. Advocating for transparency regarding how student data is collected, stored and shared is crucial. Ensuring compliance with relevant regulations such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) can safeguard the confidentiality of student records.
7. Encourage cyber hygiene at home.
Promoting good cyber hygiene practices at home is paramount in fostering a secure digital environment for children. Parents should emphasize the importance of regularly updating software, installing reputable antivirus programs and backing up important data to mitigate the risk of cyber threats.
8. Report suspicious activity.
Encouraging students to report any suspicious activity or security breaches they encounter while using school technology is essential. Establishing clear channels for reporting incidents can facilitate prompt responses from school administrators and cybersecurity professionals, thereby preventing further damage and ensuring a swift resolution.
Protecting our children's data in public schools requires a concerted effort from parents, educators and policymakers. By advocating for stronger security measures, educating students about cybersecurity and fostering a culture of vigilance both at school and at home, we can effectively mitigate the risks posed by cyberattacks. Together, let us empower the next generation to navigate the digital landscape securely and responsibly, ensuring the safety and privacy of our children's digital identities.
Justin Stivers is an investment advisory representative of and provides advisory services through CoreCap Advisors, LLC. Stivers Law is a separate entity and not affiliated with CoreCap Advisors. The information provided here is not tax, investment or financial advice. You should consult with a licensed professional for advice concerning your specific situation.
Related Content
- Should You Freeze Your Credit Amid National Public Data, Change Healthcare Breaches?
- How to Freeze Your Credit in Three Steps
- Nearly 3 Billion People Hacked in National Public Data Breach. What You Need to Know
- Nine Ways to Teach Kids Good Money Habits at Any Age
- If You’re Preparing to Move, Should You Buy or Rent?
-
Stocks Can't Hold Meta, Microsoft Gains: Stock Market TodayThe main indexes all opened higher Thursday on impressive Big Tech earnings, but momentum faded into the close.
-
Retirement Health Care Costs Are On the Rise: What You Need to KnowA 65-year-old retiree will face significantly higher lifetime health care costs than they would have a year ago, even with Medicare. Here are the surprising totals.
-
You Don't Have to Be Wealthy to Need a Wealth ManagerNavigating complex financial decisions is hard on your own, no matter how much money you have. A wealth manager can provide comprehensive financial planning, investment management, risk management and more.
-
Despite Tariffs, These Investment Experts Are Bullish on European EquitiesEuropean equities were one of the better-performing investments during the first half of 2025. They could be a good long-term prospect for U.S. investors needing to diversify, according to these investment managers.
-
How Do You Know You Are Ready for a Gray Divorce? 15 Yes-or-No QuestionsAs people 50 and older get more gray divorces, many splits are initiated by women who want a new path. Answer these 15 questions to see if you might need to think about how you should move forward.
-
'Buy Now, Pay Later' for Everyday Spending? This Financial Pro Thinks It's Risky'Buy Now, Pay Later' apps can get you out of a jam when you need money quickly. But using them regularly for small purchases could create problems.
-
Five Things to Consider Before Rolling Your 401(k) into a Roth IRAConverting at least some of an old 401(k) to a Roth IRA can offer long-term tax benefits and retirement flexibility, especially if you anticipate being in a higher tax bracket later or wish to leave a tax-free legacy.
-
From Dream Apartment to Nightmare: When Your Landlord Evicts You Through No Fault of Your OwnThis is what I suggested a tenant do to get out of her lease after her landlord's inexperience and lack of action made her rental situation unsafe. It's a legal situation called 'constructive eviction.'
-
Six Steps to Being Empowered and On Track: An Expert Financial Guide for WomenWhile most female investors feel on track with their financial goals and empowered by managing their investments, many regret not starting sooner. Here's how you can get started and take control of your financial future.
-
Selling Your Business? This Powerful Insurance Option Unlocks Multigenerational WealthPrivate placement life insurance (PPLI) offers almost unbelievable investment flexibility, estate planning and tax advantages. And it's completely legit.
