Ransomware Reference Materials for K-12

In response to the rise in malicious activity with ransomware attacks against K-12 educational institutions since the onset of COVID-19 and the increase in remote learning, CISA, in collaboration with the FBI, has produced a helpful fact sheet, Cyber Threats to K-12 Remote Learning Education. The fact sheet is an excellent primer for non-technical educational professionals, and includes general cybersecurity best practices, video-conferencing best practices, and a list of available resources. For additional related resources, see:

• CISA's Telework Guidance and Resources page.
• The STOP.THINK.CONNECT. campaign's Parent and Educator Resources page.
• *NEW* Webinar: K-12 Education Leaders’ Guide to Ransomware: Prevention, Response, and Recovery
  • Co-hosted by CISA and the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA), this webinar, moderated by Kelvin Coleman, Executive Director, NCSA, features a discussion with Bridgette Walsh, CISA Acting Deputy Assistant Director, Stakeholder Engagement, and Ryan Kalember, Executive Vice President, Proofpoint, Inc. The panel focuses on the evolving K-12 ransomware threat landscape, some common attack vectors, and resources available to our schools to prevent, respond to, and recover from a ransomware incident. 
• CYBER.ORG, which empowers educators to teach cyber confidently, resulting in students with the skills and passion needed to succeed in the cyber workforce.
• Schoolsafety.gov, which was created by the federal government to provide schools and districts with actionable recommendations to create a safe and supportive learning environment where students can thrive and grow.

Click on the icons below to find resources designed to help individuals and K-12 educational institutions remain secure during a time of remote and hybrid learning. 

Ransomware Reference Materials for K-12 School IT Staff

Best practices for school and school district cybersecurity managers, system administrators, and other technical staff to enhance their school and/or district's security posture during distance and hybrid learning conditions.

Ransomware Reference Materials for Parents, Teachers, and K-12 School Administrators

Best practices for non-technical staff as well as parents and teachers to enhance a school's security poster during distance and hybrid learning conditions.

Ransomware Reference Materials for K-12 Students

Tips and consideration, as well as cybersecurity best practices, to help students stay safe and to do their part in keeping their school's network secure while learning remotely.