The AI Risks in Education 2024

The Alarming Rise of Cyberattacks in the Education Sector

In the past academic year, the education sector has seen a staggering 258% increase in cyberattacks. This surge highlights the urgent need for educational sector to bolster their IT Support and cybersecurity measures.

Why Using AI in an Educational Environment can be Risky

While AI offers significant benefits for teachers, the privacy and security issues associated with its use are apparent.

Did You Know the Average Age of UK Hackers Is Quite Young Most Start in Their School Years - Speedster IT

Did You Know the Average Age of UK Hackers Is Quite Young Most Start in Their School Years

A report from the National Crime Agency showed that the average age of British hackers is around 17 years old. In terms of education, many young hackers are still in school, often motivated by the challenge and peer recognition rather than financial gain, posing a significant insider risk for schools.

Here are the associated Risks:

  • Supply Chain Vulnerabilities: AI systems often rely on third-party components, making them susceptible to attacks if these are compromised.
  • Legacy Systems: Older academic systems are not designed with modern cybersecurity practices, leaving them vulnerable to attacks.
  • Insider Threats: Faculty, staff, or students with access to AI systems can unintentionally or maliciously misuse their privileges, posing significant data security risks.
  • Increased Attack Surface: The use of AI increases the attack surface of educational institutions, making them more vulnerable to sophisticated cyber-attacks, such as phishing and malware.
  • Authentication Weaknesses: Students should be cautious about using AI tools like ChatGPT on-site due to weak authentication mechanisms, which can enable unauthorised access to AI-powered academic resources.
  • Privacy and Data Protection: AI’s reliance on vast amounts of data can lead to privacy issues, including unauthorised data processing and the “black box” problem, where the decision-making process is not transparent.

These risks highlight the importance of robust cybersecurity measures to protect both individual users and the integrity of educational institutions.

Blocking The Use of AI Tools In an Educational Environment - Speedster IT

Blocking The Use of AI Tools In an Educational Environment

By restricting AI tools, classrooms aim to protect sensitive information, support academic integrity, and ensure a safe learning environment for all students.

This can be achieved through, network restrictions, device management, monitoring and detection solutions and educating staff / students.

By avoiding the use of AI tools on-site, students can help protect their personal information and contribute to a safer digital environment within their schools and universities.

Speedster IT are cyber essentials plus certified

How We Can Help

Speedster IT can play a pivotal role in helping schools block unauthorised AI tools and mitigate the risks associated with AI insider threats.

By implementing robust network restrictions, device management solutions, and monitoring systems, Speedster IT ensures that AI tools are used responsibly and securely within educational environments.

Additionally, we are Cyber Essentials Experts so we can help by guiding schools through the process of becoming Cyber Essentials qualified. If you would like more information about the services we can offer schools, colleges and universities – get in touch 0203 411 9111.