Did you know that the education sector is one of the main targets of cyber-attacks worldwide?
Educational institutions, which manage vast databases of confidential data, have become an attractive target for hackers, often due to their insufficient cybersecurity measures.
According to a report by Check Point Research, a leading provider of AI and Cloud-based cybersecurity platforms, the education sector was the most targeted by cyberattacks in 2024. On average, each organization in this sector suffered 3,086 attacks per week until July, representing an increase of 37% on the previous year.
This is because educational institutions generate large volumes of personal data, including staff, teachers and students. With this large number of people, networks are larger, more open and, consequently, more difficult to protect.
Students are particularly vulnerable to cyber attacks, as they often use personal devices and connect to public Wi-Fi networks without considering the security risks.
Educational institutions face several cybersecurity challenges, including:
- Sensitive data repositories: Schools store large volumes of personal information, which makes them attractive targets for hackers.
- Decentralized infrastructure: School networks often include multiple devices and locations, making protection more complex.
- Limited budgets: Many schools have limited financial resources, making investing in robust cybersecurity solutions difficult.
In addition to cybersecurity challenges, technological innovation can help institutions prepare their students for the digital future. One of the solutions to strengthen cybersecurity in educational institutions, in addition to protecting data, is using AI and Machine Learning (ML) in the educational context.
Lenovo, through solutions such as ThinkShield, has stood out in supporting schools to strengthen their digital security and prepare for the future with innovative technology.
In addition to strengthening security, Lenovo supports innovation in schools through technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). These technologies not only protect networks, but also provide students with innovative educational tools, preparing them for the digital future.
One of the options being considered is to introduce training in AI and ML, namely programming languages such as Python, which is commonly used to develop AI projects. There is also the possibility of using educational kits and online courses from organizations such as Code.org and AI4ALL.
In addition to these, Google also has 2 initiatives with significant advances in AI and ML education:
- Google AI Education offers AI experiences, educational kits and other resources to help students explore AI concepts through interactive projects.
- TensorFlow for Schools promotes ML education by providing lesson plans, tutorials and activities for teachers.
In addition, these technologies are ideal for hands-on projects that allow students to apply their knowledge and creativity to real-world problems. All these tools not only encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, but also prepare students for the digital future, including cybersecurity issues.
As the use of AI and ML increases, so do concerns about privacy and ethics. Lenovo’s solutions, such as ThinkShield, ensure that institutions can adopt these innovations safely and responsibly, ensuring compliance with best practices regarding data privacy and the ethical use of technology.
Another aspect to consider is intellectual property rights and copyright infringement. Teachers should instruct how to cite sources and use copyrighted material responsibly, emphasizing the importance of originality and respect for the work of others, and giving due credit.
Tools such as GPT-3, StyleGAN and DALL-E can be used to generate text and digital art, encouraging students to explore human creativity combined with artificial intelligence.
In short, the use of AI and ML opens up great opportunities for students and teachers, but it also requires increased attention to privacy, security and ethics. To meet these challenges, solutions such as Lenovo ThinkShield offer a robust defense, guaranteeing the protection of educational institutions and their sensitive data.
Get in touch with our team and find out how Lenovo solutions can protect your institution and prepare students for the digital future, with security and innovation at the center of all operations.