Keep classes running and student records private.
- target for ransomware attacks
- #1
- schools hit by ransomware in one year
- 1,600+
- more value for student data vs adult records
- 10x
Threats
What attackers go after
Ransomware Attacks
Schools and universities are prime ransomware targets due to limited security budgets and high disruption costs. Attacks shut down classes, delay graduations, and expose sensitive records.
Student Data Theft
Student records contain Social Security numbers, financial aid data, and health information. This data can be exploited for years before victims discover the theft.
Phishing & Credential Theft
Large user populations with varying security awareness create abundant phishing targets. Compromised accounts lead to data theft, financial fraud, and lateral movement.
Compliance
The frameworks you answer to
Educational institutions must protect student data under federal law. FERPA violations can result in loss of federal funding, and data breaches damage institutional reputation and student trust.
FERPA
- Protect education records and personally identifiable information
- Consent requirements for data disclosure
- Annual notification of rights to students/parents
- Reasonable security measures requirement
COPPA (K-12)
- Parental consent for data collection under 13
- Restrictions on educational technology vendors
- Data minimization requirements
- Vendor contract requirements
Virtus helps educational institutions implement security programs that satisfy FERPA requirements, protect student data, and maintain community trust.
How we help
Where we would start
Security Assessments
Evaluate your institution's security against FERPA requirements and education-sector threats. Identify vulnerabilities in student information systems and learning platforms.
Penetration Testing
Test defenses protecting student data, SIS platforms, and campus networks. Identify weaknesses before attackers exploit them to steal records or deploy ransomware.
Security Training
Educate faculty, staff, and students on phishing, social engineering, and safe computing. Build a security-aware campus culture that reduces breach risk.
Managed Security
24/7 security monitoring for educational networks. Detect ransomware, data exfiltration, and unauthorized access to student records.
Case study
In a client's words
“When we saw how districts were being hit with ransomware, we reevaluated how we are securing our networks. Virtus came in and pressure-tested our implementations and helped uncover significant gaps. That peace of mind is invaluable.”
- ransomware incidents
- Zero
- FERPA audit compliance
- Achieved
- reduction in phishing success
- 80%
Tell us about your district or campus.
Assessments, testing, and phishing training that protect student records and support FERPA compliance.