More than half of schools suffered a cyber incident in the past year, report finds
The Center for Internet Security said that more than 11,000 incidents needed escalation and response in the 2025-26 academic year, while almost 80% of schools said they need more cyber support.
The Center for Internet Security's report on cyber incidents in schools reveals a concerning trend. Over half of schools experienced a cyber incident in the past year, with over 11,000 incidents requiring escalation and response. This not only disrupts the learning environment but also puts sensitive student and staff data at risk.
This high incidence of cyber attacks highlights the vulnerability of schools to cyber threats. Schools often have limited IT resources and budgets, making them more susceptible to attacks. The fact that almost 80% of schools reported needing more cyber support underscores the need for increased investment in cybersecurity measures. Councils, as key stakeholders in education, should take note of these findings and consider the implications for their own schools and districts.
As councils review their cybersecurity strategies, they should prioritize allocating resources to support schools in enhancing their defenses. This may involve providing training for staff, investing in cybersecurity infrastructure, or partnering with external experts to bolster school security. Councils should also monitor the implementation of the Center for Internet Security's recommendations and assess the effectiveness of their own cybersecurity measures in protecting schools from future threats.
Originally reported by route-fifty.com. CouncilNews adds analysis for government & civic readers.