The rapid adoption of edtech tools has transformed learning, but it has also introduced hidden cybersecurity risks. Many schools assume their security measures (firewalls, filters, vendor DPAs) are enough, but this is a dangerous misconception that leaves schools exposed to risk. In this article, I will explore the overlooked vulnerabilities in K-12 edtech – and the actionable steps schools can take to protect their students, data, and devices.

The “Invisible” Threats Lurking in K-12 EdTech

When educational technology was first introduced in schools, it was unlikely that a school would partner with more than a handful of third-party edtech vendors, and because of that, it didn’t seem too risky to share rostering data with these vendors or even think about that risk. Today, the average school connected with nearly 2,000 different edtech vendors – and that doesn’t include the ones that teachers are connecting to on their own that the school doesn’t know about.

To work properly, many of these applications require access to sensitive student data. The assumption has been that these vendors are all operating with an appropriate level of security, but many of them are collecting data without employing any kind of robust encryption. If you’re a district IT leader working in today’s education system, you have to wonder who has your student data? What are they doing with it? How can you regain control over it?

These are tough questions to ask, but considering the escalation of cyberattacks on schools in the last few years, there is urgency in getting an idea of where your risk is and taking action to reduce it.

Why Do Schools Miss Risks?

Most schools are facing many pressures and responsibilities when it comes to managing student data privacy. The following challenges prevent them from identifying and mitigating some risks.

Assuming Vendor Security = School Security: Most school districts trust that the edtech vendors with whom they contract have strong security, but not all do. Some vendors prioritize usability over security, leaving gaps, while others do not adopt the latest security measures, like multi-factor authentication.

Lack of Cybersecurity Training for Educators: The human factor is often the weakest link in school security, but teachers and staff are not trained to recognize phishing, malware, or unauthorized data access. Teachers are also tempted to trial new edtech without informing the school’s IT leaders.

Over-Reliance on Filters & Firewalls: Many schools think content filters and firewalls are enough. However, these tools don’t protect against insider threats, phishing, or device-based attacks.

How to Close the Gaps

In order for school districts to better mitigate risk and provide better data privacy protection for students and staff, they need to adopt better cybersecurity hygiene practices by taking the following steps:

Vett EdTech Tools with Cybersecurity in Mind

Schools should assess apps for data security, compliance (COPPA, FERPA), and encryption before adoption. Using edtech vendors that have been vetted by 1EdTech can help reduce the risk.

Implement a Zero Trust Security Model

A zero trust approach to cybersecurity is based on the concept of “never trust, always verify.”  Using this approach, districts should treat every user and device as a potential threat until verified. Require MFA, strict access controls, and regular security audits.

Educate Staff & Students on Cyber Hygiene

Schools should provide regular cybersecurity training to staff and students on:

• Spotting phishing attempts
• Safe password practices
• Recognizing suspicious activity

The Future of K-12 Cybersecurity: What’s Next?

Threats against K-12 schools are on the rise, and the only way to thwart cyber attacks is by adopting an aggressive, zero trust approach to security and culture within the school. Staff and students alike should be educated about potential threats and taught how to improve their personal cybersecurity as well as their responsibility in protecting the school’s network through responsible use.

Schools Must Act Now

As AI becomes ubiquitous throughout our society, we will see more AI-driven phishing scams targeting students & staff as well as increased attacks on cloud-based learning platforms. Schools must move beyond basic security measures to protect their students, staff, and data. Schools will need to tighten security regulations on third-party vendors, require the use of MFA throughout the district, and move beyond the minimum cybersecurity required.

Cyber threats in K-12 edtech are evolving—schools need proactive strategies, stronger vetting, and ongoing education to stay ahead. Now is the time for schools to rethink their cybersecurity approach and close the gaps before a breach happens.