Welcome back to the Cybersecurity Corner! We often talk about advanced software, encrypted networks, and state-of-the-art security systems. These technical tools are vital, but there's a critical component in our cyber defense that is far more powerful and far more vulnerable: us.

The truth is, most successful cyberattacks don't start with a hacker breaking through a complex technical firewall. They start with a simple click, a quick phone call, or an innocent-looking email that tricks a person—a teacher, a student, a staff member, or a parent—into making a mistake. This is why we say that people are the weakest link, but they are also our strongest firewall.

Building a "Human Firewall" means empowering every member of our school community with the knowledge and habits to recognize and deflect cyber threats. It's about creating a culture where security is everyone's responsibility, not just the IT department's.

Why People are the Target (and the Solution)

Cybercriminals are masters of social engineering—the art of manipulating people. They know it's often easier to trick someone into giving them access than to hack through layers of technical security. This means:

• Phishing Emails: Still the number one threat. A convincing email (appearing to be from the principal, HR, or a vendor) prompts you to click a link that steals your login credentials or installs malicious software.

• Vishing (Phone Scams): A call from someone pretending to be tech support, demanding remote access to your computer to "fix" a non-existent problem.

• Smishing (Text Scams): Urgent texts about package delivery, account alerts, or lottery winnings, trying to get you to click a bad link.

These attacks bypass expensive security tools by exploiting our trust, curiosity, or sense of urgency.

Building Our Human Firewall: Your Role in Cybersecurity

This isn't about blaming anyone. It's about training, awareness, and a collective commitment to vigilance. Here’s how every member of our West Valley School District community contributes to our "Human Firewall":

 

For Staff & Faculty: Your Vigilance Protects Our Mission

As district employees, you handle sensitive student and operational data daily. Your role is paramount.

• Continuous Training is Key: Our regular cybersecurity training isn't just a requirement; it's our ongoing defense strategy. Pay attention, learn the red flags, and understand the latest threats.

• Think Before You Click/Call/Reply: Always pause and verify before acting on unexpected requests. Check sender addresses, hover over links, and confirm urgent calls through official channels.

• Report, Report, Report: If you see a suspicious email, get a strange call, or notice anything unusual on your district device, report it to the IT department immediately. Even if it turns out to be nothing, it helps us stay ahead of emerging threats.

• Secure Your Accounts: Always use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on district accounts and never reuse district passwords for personal accounts.

For Students: Smart Choices for a Safe Digital Future

You are digital natives, but that doesn't make you immune to scams. Your online habits impact not just your personal data, but also the safety of your classmates and school.

• Guard Your Login Info: Your passwords are like keys to the school. Don't share them with anyone, and always use strong, unique passwords for school accounts.

• Identify Online Scams: Be skeptical of "free" offers for game currency, easy money schemes, or urgent messages from people you don't know well online. They are often traps.

• Use School Devices Responsibly: Only install approved software, avoid suspicious websites, and report any unusual activity to a teacher or IT staff.

For Parents & Guardians: Extending Security Home

Your involvement reinforces our efforts and helps protect the bridge between home and school.

• Talk About It: Discuss social engineering and cybersecurity with your children regularly. Share examples of scams that target youth and the elderly.

• Verify Urgent Requests: If you receive an urgent email, text, or call claiming to be from the school and asking for sensitive information (like banking details or immediate payment), always call the school's official main number to verify before taking any action. Do not use contact info provided in the suspicious message.

• Reinforce Good Habits: Encourage strong passwords, MFA, and critical thinking about online content on all home devices.

Our District's Vigilance

At West Valley School District, protecting our community's data is our highest priority. We continuously strengthen our defenses with robust security measures and monitor our systems for threats. However, our most effective defense relies on an aware, educated community.

By making cybersecurity awareness a part of our daily routine, we transform every individual into a powerful part of our "Human Firewall." Together, we can create a safer, more resilient digital environment for learning and growth.

 

Stay safe, stay vigilant!

Jeremy Cox

IT Director

West Valley School District