Educational institutions are entrusted with all types of data: business, student, parent, employee, donor, card data, and more. Most records in electronic data systems and web-based applications, which are accessible to the internet, are more vulnerable to breaches. And schools are not only at risk from outside threats but also from internal users who need to be made aware of proper security best practices.

Schools are responsible for protecting their students. Students must be protected from physical harm during school-related events and activities and from the threat of criminal attacks on campus. In addition, students must be protected from cyber threats and vulnerabilities among school-owned devices, Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices, and non-network personal mobile devices on the network. While the physical and cybersecurity of K-12 schools have primarily been operated in silos, there is an increasing need to integrate the two to ensure complete campus-wide protection.

Safety & Security for K-12 & Higher Education

BLACKSAND is a security consulting firm for K12, Higher Education, and organizations with specialization in safety, security, student affairs, residential life, fire protection, law enforcement, risk management, student conduct, and legal compliance.

We cover Higher Education with the following security services:

• Centralized cybersecurity program management
• Shared policy development and implementation
• Shared-services models for efficiencies across institutions
• Virtual ISO and cybersecurity team management
• Scalable cyber security control implementation

Security Assessments for K-12 & Higher Education

Whether developing funding requirements as part of a community effort or simply measuring organizational risks, BLACKSAND offers personalized assessment services to capture a snapshot of your organization’s strengths, areas of focus, and stakeholder voices. An independent analysis of your organization’s systems, processes, staffing levels, and the annual budget is a powerful tool for benchmarking and effective strategic planning.

Cybersecurity Assessments

• Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery Assessments
• Risk & Vulnerability Assessments
• Staffing & Funding Assessments
• Comprehensive Technology Assessments

Cyber Security Compliance For K12, Higher Education, & Businesses

BLACKSAND’s cyber security services support compliance with the GDPR, DPA 2018, PCI DSS, and other data security standards.

BLACKSAND has experience working with universities, colleges, and schools and is better placed to understand your organization’s security challenges and how to address them.