Schools ramp up cybersecurity to protect students online

During a recent government meeting, officials highlighted significant advancements in cybersecurity measures within the district, emphasizing their commitment to exceeding legal requirements for internet protection. The district has implemented nine tools for safeguarding online activity, with a primary focus on real-time monitoring of internet traffic. Partnering with Region 10 and Black Swan Cybersecurity, the district analyzes approximately 3,000 events per second, ensuring thorough human review to determine appropriate actions for potentially harmful traffic.

Board members expressed appreciation for the robust cybersecurity plan, with specific inquiries regarding the protection of personal devices under the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy. It was clarified that while personal devices can connect to the network, they are restricted to the lowest level of internet access, which may not provide the same level of protection as district-issued devices. Officials encouraged parents to promote the use of school-provided devices to enhance safety and minimize risks associated with personal devices, which could potentially harbor harmful content.

The discussion underscored the district's proactive approach to internet safety, aiming to create a secure online environment for students while fostering awareness among parents about the implications of device usage in schools.