Malicious threat actors (hackers) are always developing new techniques to breach passwords. This article lists the different types of password attacks and some defences/counter-measures which can be used to enhance password security. In our experience, hackers are most successful at accessing school systems unlawfully using these methods. Passwords continue to be a primary target for cyber criminals seeking unauthorised access to accounts.
Password security is a
Hackers and cyber criminals are continuously searching for vulnerabilities in software and systems to exploit for their own malicious gains.
What are Zero-Day VulnerabilitiesZero-day vulnerabilities refer to software flaws or weaknesses that are unknown to the software vendor and, consequently, unpatched at the time of discovery by cyber criminals. These vulnerabilities are security holes that malicious threat actors (hackers) can exploit to gain unauthorised acces
The Cyber Security Breaches Survey is a research study for UK cyber resilience, aligning with the National Cyber Strategy.
The full report is here: Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2023
There is a separate annex published for education institutions, the full report is here: Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2023 Education Institutions Annex
In Summary, the percentage of organisations that have identified breaches or attacks in the last 12 months:
May 4th is World Password Day - it's good to have a day to consider how secure your passwords are and where you store that information.
Intel created World Password Day - the first Thursday of May - to address the critical need for solid passwords. The day was first celebrated in 2013, and since then it has become an important reminder to take password security seriously. In a world where technology is increasingly integrated into our daily lives, our passwords serve
A Wiltshire secondary school has been severely affected by a targeted attack by hackers who demanded a ransom to restore access to its IT network. The attack affected the school's local server, its website, internet access, Wi-Fi, printers and internal phone systems.
A full report can be read here: https://www.gazetteandherald.co.uk/news/23476464.hacker-demands-ransom-taking-control-wiltshire-schools/
The school's website was still down several days later. An updat
The ICO recently published an updated article aimed at small business with tips for IT security - this advice would also be applicable for schools and colleges.
This table shows the advice from the ICO and how areas of the Data Protection Education Knowledge Bank can help and guide you in those areas.
ICO Recommendation DPE Knowledge Bank Links Back up your data Info/Cyber Security ChecklistHow secure is your se