Universities store research, student records, and administrative systems. Ransomware can encrypt servers across faculties simultaneously. Remote learning platforms, grading systems, and research databases may become inaccessible. Payment demands can disrupt budgets and timelines. Universities often face unique compliance challenges during attacks.
It matters because academic continuity and research are disrupted. Institutions need layered defenses.
It also raises awareness of higher education cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
Ransomware can lock entire university networks at once.
[EDUCAUSE, educause.edu]