73% of UK Education Sector Hit by Cyber-Attacks in Past Five Years

ESET research highlights the UK education sector’s high exposure to cyber-attacks, with 73% of institutions hit in the past five years and 71–97% of schools/colleges/universities affected in the last 12 months; despite this, 7% have no cybersecurity budget, 33% lack antivirus, 35% lack strong password policies, and 79% have not adopted MDR. The report notes rising concern over phishing (43%) and plans to boost staff awareness (55%) and expand cybersecurity tools (51%), alongside a recent example of operational disruption from a ransomware attack that temporarily closed Blacon High School; experts urge greater investment, integrated defenses, training, and collaboration with specialized providers.