UK Schools Hit by Surge in Ransomware Attacks 🔍

In the first quarter of 2025, over 80 UK schools have reported significant IT disruptions due to ransomware attacks, with some institutions losing access to entire networks, student records, and teaching materials. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued urgent guidance urging schools to update their systems, back up data, and train staff in recognising phishing scams.

Cybercriminals often gain access through simple mistakes—such as clicking a malicious link or using weak passwords—highlighting the need for robust security policies in schools. The education sector is being reminded that it is just as vulnerable as large corporations when it comes to cyber threats.

In response, some local authorities are partnering with private IT providers to improve defences, and the Department for Education is reviewing its cybersecurity standards across the country.

This surge is a reminder for all organisations—not just schools—to regularly update software, implement multi-factor authentication, and back up sensitive data to offline locations.