Cyberattacks on Russian Schools Surge by 47 Percent

Experts urge schools to audit their networks as phishing, ransomware, and IoT-based threats escalate.

In the first quarter of 2025, cyberattacks on Russia’s education sector rose by 47% compared to the same period in 2024, according to cybersecurity firm Informzashchita. The increase is tied to the growing volume of sensitive data stored by schools and universities which often lack robust protection.

Phishing accounts for 80% of these incidents, with attackers using fraudulent emails and messages to steal credentials and access systems. DDoS attacks are also on the rise and these attacks crush systems by overwhelming them with traffic. In some cases, ransomware groups have encrypted school data and demanded payment for its release.

A particularly alarming trend is the use of IoT devices as entry points. About one in four attacks target vulnerabilities in school projectors, routers, and even audio systems. As campuses adopt new technologies, hackers evolve their tools and methods to exploit them.

To defend against this growing threat, experts recommend routine vulnerability assessments, endpoint protection, and comprehensive cybersecurity training for staff and students. Specialized services can assist schools in identifying weak spots and implementing safeguards.

Only a proactive, layered security strategy can protect educational institutions from the mounting wave of cyber threats.