Schools Under Siege: Students Hack Own IT Systems in Alarming 57-Case Trend

Children Hacking Their Own Schools for 'Fun', Watchdog Warns The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has issued a warning about the "worrying trend" of students hacking their own school and college IT systems, with 57 cases reported since 2022. The watchdog claims that more than half of so-called "insider" cyber attacks and data breaches in education settings originate from within schools. According to Heather Toomey, Principal Cyber Specialist at the ICO, what starts out as a dare or challenge can ultimately lead to children taking part in damaging attacks on organizations or critical infrastructure. "What starts out as a bit of fun in a school setting can have serious consequences," she said. The warning comes amid a spate of high-profile cyber-attacks affecting firms including Microsoft and Jaguar Land Rover, where teenage hackers have been implicated. The ICO has investigated 215 hacks and breaches originating from inside education settings since 2022. Experts say that the trend is not unique to the UK and is a global issue. "Cybersecurity threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and it's not just about hacking," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a cybersecurity expert at the University of California. "It's about understanding the motivations behind these attacks and how they can be prevented." The ICO has urged teachers to recognize the potential threat posed by students and take steps to prevent such incidents. The watchdog has also emphasized the importance of education in teaching children about online safety and responsible behavior. As the global cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, experts warn that schools must adapt to address this growing concern. "Schools need to be proactive in educating their students about cybersecurity best practices," said Dr. Rodriguez. "It's not just about teaching them how to code or use technology; it's about teaching them how to use technology responsibly." The ICO has promised to continue monitoring the situation and working with schools to address this issue. In related news, the US Department of Education has announced plans to launch a new initiative aimed at promoting cybersecurity awareness among students. The initiative will provide resources and support for schools to develop their own cybersecurity programs. As the world grapples with the growing threat of cyber attacks, experts warn that it's essential to address this issue head-on. "We need to work together to educate our children about online safety and responsible behavior," said Heather Toomey. "The consequences of inaction will be severe." *Reporting by Bbc.*