Independent schools are increasingly becoming targets for cybercriminals. With financial transactions, sensitive student data, and staff payroll information at risk, it’s critical that schools take proactive steps to safeguard their systems.

Understanding the Risks

Cyberattacks on schools have surged in recent years, with threats ranging from phishing scams and invoice fraud to ransomware attacks that can lock critical systems and demand hefty payments.

  • Phishing Emails: Attackers pose as trusted contacts to trick staff into revealing sensitive data.
  • Invoice Fraud: Fraudsters intercept or impersonate school suppliers to change payment details.
  • Ransomware Attacks: Cybercriminals encrypt school data and demand ransom payments for its release.

The Invoice Scam Targeting Schools

A common scam affecting schools involves email interception and invoice fraud. Cybercriminals gain access to an email chain, alter the bank details on an invoice, and send it on for payment. In many cases, they use email spoofing; subtly changing a letter or domain in the email address to make it appear legitimate. Schools unknowingly process payments to fraudulent accounts, often losing thousands before the fraud is detected.

Why Schools Are at Risk

Schools often rely on traditional methods of communication, such as email, for financial transactions and sensitive correspondence. Unfortunately, email is one of the least secure channels for sharing confidential information, making schools vulnerable to fraud and breaches.

Steps Schools Can Take to Strengthen Security

  1. Avoid Sending Financial Information via Email. Use secure payment platforms instead of email to process transactions.
  2. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). Ensure all staff accounts have an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized access.
  3. Educate Staff on Cybersecurity Best Practices. Regular training can help staff identify phishing attempts and suspicious activity.
  4. Use Secure Portals for Parent and Staff Communications. Encrypted platforms can ensure sensitive data, such as invoices and payslips, remain protected.

The Role of Technology in Strengthening Cybersecurity

Many Independent Schools are now turning to secure digital solutions to reduce cyber risks. Platforms that provide encrypted payment processing, parent billing portals, and secure staff payroll access help protect schools from the growing wave of cybercrime.

By taking proactive measures, schools can stay ahead of cyber threats and ensure they maintain trust and security for their students, parents, and staff. Secure, encrypted platforms can help protect your school.

✅The WCBS Billing Portal gives parents a single point of access to check their bills and make payments.

✅HUBpay removes the need to include your bank details on invoices. Instead you can include a secure link for parents to pay you.

✅WCBS ePAYSLIPS keeps staff data secure with a secure portal to view sensitive documents like payslips and P60s.

Want to learn more? Reach out today.