- Schools are increasingly adopting digital tools, but cybersecurity remains a concern
- Only 14% of schools require security awareness training for students
- Parents trust schools, yet many institutions lack password management guidance
- Keeper Security study urges joint action by schools and families to protect students online
- Report highlights impacts of weak cybersecurity, including data theft and compromised accounts
As the holiday season ends and schools reopen, digital learning tools and virtual classrooms return to the spotlight. For Filipino families, the growing integration of technology into education comes with a pressing concern: cybersecurity. A new study by Keeper Security highlights gaps in school systems globally, including the Philippines, that leave students vulnerable to online threats.
According to the report, “Cybersecurity in Schools: Safeguarding Students in the Digital Era,” only 14% of schools worldwide require students to undergo security awareness training, and a mere 9% provide access to password managers. This lack of preparation exposes students to risks like data breaches and identity theft. In the Philippines, where tech adoption is rising, these issues are increasingly relevant. Filipino parents may trust schools to protect their children, but the reality often falls short.
The report surveyed 6,000 parents and students from regions including Southeast Asia, and revealed that weak cybersecurity practices are widespread. Alarmingly, 19% of respondents admitted to reusing passwords across personal and school accounts. This practice not only increases the risk of hacking but also jeopardizes sensitive information like grades and personal data.
For Filipino parents, the study serves as a reminder to take an active role in safeguarding their children online. Keeper Security recommends using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and creating strong, unique passwords as basic steps to enhance digital safety at home.
Darren Guccione, CEO of Keeper Security, emphasizes the need for collective action: “Schools must prioritize cybersecurity education and equip students with the tools they need to stay safe online. Parents, too, have a crucial role to play.”
Beyond awareness, the report highlights the severe consequences of cyber incidents in schools. While only 7% of respondents reported their schools had been hacked, nearly one-third of those affected experienced data theft, and 27% had accounts compromised. These incidents underscore the importance of proactive measures to address the growing cyber risks in education.
As Filipino schools embrace digital tools, they have an opportunity to lead by example in cybersecurity. Collaboration between educational institutions and families is essential to building a safe digital environment for the next generation.
The full report and more findings can be accessed on Keeper Security’s website. Let’s work together to protect our students in this increasingly connected world.
