Higher education institutions are now more prepared for cyberattacks than they were in 2023, but experts warn that it may not be enough. Cybersecurity concerns spread through higher ed last year after a data breach hit multiple institutions across the nation. Nearly a year later, these breaches are still happening, with software product MOVEit announcing new vulnerabilities that could lead to further security issues.
Shawn Waldman, CEO of Secure Cyber Defense, emphasized the importance of staying vigilant, stating that organizations need to be on high alert to prevent cyber threats. Despite increased awareness and investment in safety measures, cybersecurity experts believe that more needs to be done to combat the persistent and growing threats.
A survey conducted by Moody’s found that college and university cybersecurity budgets have increased by over 70 percent in the last five years. However, money alone may not be sufficient to fend off attacks. Software company Malwarebytes labeled 2023 as the worst ransomware year on record for education, with a 70 percent increase in reported attacks.
To address these challenges, experts recommend a systemic change within the university system. Doug Thompson, chief education architect at Tanium, stressed the need for a designated point person in charge of cybersecurity operations and implementing strict deadlines for cyber practices. Waldman advised institutions to conduct internal and external assessments before allocating resources to ensure they address existing gaps effectively.
Institutions with limited resources can focus on adopting cloud-based tools, while students also play a crucial role in preventing cyberattacks. Todd Doss, senior managing director at Guidepost Solutions, highlighted the importance of student involvement and training in cybersecurity measures. As universities consider adopting artificial intelligence and machine learning, experts caution that these tools can be used for both beneficial and malicious purposes.
While higher education institutions have made progress in enhancing their cybersecurity measures, experts stress the need for continued vigilance and proactive strategies to mitigate cyber threats effectively.