Are you one of the key decision-makers for your educational institution? Data security probably makes it on the list of your top concerns. First, let’s get the basics straight with a quick look at data generated by educational institutions and threats faced by the same.
Colleges generate and handle a gigantic amount of digital records
Students end up sharing a bulk of data with Netflix, Amazon, and of course, Facebook. But, what about the information shared with the college? No, the focus areas are not transcripts, grades, or teachers’ remarks on academic performance.
A digital record gets created whenever trainees log in to the college learning management system or use the institute’s Wi-Fi network. Information is collected when users swipe cards to enter the library, classroom, dorm. Systems can even track what you buy for lunch in the cafeteria.
Most trainees do not realize they share an enormous amount of information with the college. Why? Probably because there’s no blanket data-use agreement to be signed.
Apt use of data
Colleges are fighting a digital war with competitors to get more students.
Data can help institutions in retaining students using the following benefits of ERP:
- Offer a scholarship to relevant students.
- Analyze performance data and offer special attention to underperforming students.
- Reassess curriculum.
- Offer customized programs for trainees as per their unique needs.
- Students’ data can help colleges improve security measures and facilities like dorms, libraries, cafeterias, etc.
These steps can ultimately improve the bottom line as most trainees entering college will complete graduation.
Data security risks that institutions face
It is common knowledge that hotels, banks, insurance companies, and government organizations face constant threats from hackers. However, there’s little awareness of educational institutions that have become targets for cybercriminals during recent years.
Institutions keep biometrics, financial records, birth certificates, and other data. They steal the data and sell it in the black market. Thus, cybercriminals often get motivated to target educational institutions’ databases.
More than two thousand public schools became the victims of ransomware attacks during the last two years in the US alone.
When it comes to Trojan malware, cyber security experts suggest the education sector is the top target. Most ransomware and malware attacks happen through emails.
High non-compliance costs
Colleges and schools are prone to face cyber attacks. Thus, compliance with information security regulations has to be the top priority.
Government departments, tech companies, and financial institutions are vital targets. However, studies also point out that the education sector ranks fourth regarding lost or stolen data cases.
You don’t want your institution to be the victim of phishing or social engineering attacks, do you?
Benefits of ERP system in data security
Now, you might wonder, how to secure the institution against threats and protect data?
The college ERP system has the answer.
These software programs have the best security measures in place. They create confidence and encourage users to carry on with their daily routine without worrying about information security.
1.Data encryption
The hardware and software information is encrypted. The data remains stored in an unreadable format. So, hackers fail to decipher even if they manage to access the same. Put simply; unauthorized third parties cannot retrieve the encrypted data.
2.Cloud-based backups
Most education ERP systems store information on cloud-based servers. It is stored safely and quickly restored in case there’s an issue with the primary server. There’s always an additional backup. There is no chance of information getting lost in transit.
3.User-authentication
The information load remains accessible to individuals selected by the system administrator. The best-in-class authentication tools stay in place to ensure the user’s fingerprint, iris, face, or passwords are verified to enable access to data. Hackers or unauthorized users cannot easily manipulate the same.
4.Data masking
Data masking is another method used by education ERP systems. The highly efficient security measure involves masking the stored data. Only authorized persons can unmask and view the same. Miscreants do not get access to confidential information even if they manage to hack the systems.
5.Anti-virus software programs
The ERP systems handle data concerning students, lecturers, college’s financial position, and trainee performance. Thus, college management systems ensure a good amount of data security.
Again, best-in-class cyber security solutions, including anti-virus, are deployed to protect information.
The software alerts users even if one of the computers or mobile devices in the network gets compromised. The education ERP remains well secured at all times.
Almost every sector faces data security threats. Thus, if you are accessing or using educational software, it is always advisable to ensure you know everything about data breaches, viruses, or cyber-attacks that the system is vulnerable to.
Do you have a college ERP system in place? If so, you won’t have to worry much about information security. If you don’t, it’s time to get in touch with MyEdu. Let our experts guide you with details for highly secure, web and app-based educational ERP systems.
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