As tax season approaches, school IT teams are busy ensuring financial documents are secure, staff have the right access, and compliance standards are met. Unfortunately, cybercriminals see this hectic period as the perfect opportunity to strike.
Most hackers aim to exploit sensitive school data, scam districts, and cause disruptions. In today’s blog, we’ll discuss why tax season gives cybercriminals an advantage and how you can protect your school’s IT infrastructure.
Why Tax Season Attracts Cybercriminals
1. Increased Exchange of Sensitive Data
School districts handle a significant amount of financial and personal data during tax season—both internally and with external vendors like payroll services. This creates multiple points of vulnerability that hackers can exploit, particularly through phishing emails.
2. Tight Deadlines Lead to Mistakes
With financial and administrative staff working under tight deadlines, there’s a higher chance of overlooking security red flags. This makes it easier for phishing scams and malware to slip through unnoticed.
3. High Volume of Emails
During tax season, school networks see an influx of emails related to tax forms, vendor payments, and compliance updates. Cybercriminals take advantage by crafting sophisticated phishing emails that appear legitimate, tricking staff into sharing sensitive data.
4. Widespread Scams Targeting School Districts
Hackers often impersonate trusted entities like the IRS or financial institutions to deceive school employees into providing confidential information or making fraudulent payments.
Common Tax Season Threats Schools Need to Watch Out For
- Phishing Emails: Fake messages claiming to be from the IRS, a payroll provider, or an accountant requesting sensitive information or directing users to malicious links.
- Fake Invoices or Payment Requests: Scammers send fraudulent invoices or urgent payment demands to trick school districts into wiring money.
- Ransomware Attacks: Hackers encrypt financial and student data, demanding a ransom for its release.
- Social Engineering: Cybercriminals pose as school administrators, vendors, or accountants to gain access to sensitive information.
How to Protect Your School’s IT Infrastructure This Tax Season
1. Train Your Staff
Educate finance and administrative employees about the latest scams and how to recognize phishing attempts. Teach them to:
- Verify email senders before opening attachments or clicking links.
- Be cautious of urgent payment requests or unusual account updates.
- Report suspicious emails immediately.
2. Secure Your Communications
Ensure all tax-related data exchanges are encrypted. Use secure portals or file-sharing tools instead of email to reduce risks.
3. Implement Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
Require MFA for access to financial systems, email accounts, and any platforms used for tax-related activities. This extra layer of security can prevent unauthorized access even if credentials are compromised.
4. Conduct a Cybersecurity Audit
Work with your IT provider to assess vulnerabilities in your network before hackers can exploit them. Prioritize:
- Updating software and applying security patches.
- Securing network endpoints and school devices.
- Verifying the integrity of data backups.
5. Verify All Financial Transactions
Double-check payment requests, especially those involving large sums or sensitive accounts. Confirm them via a second communication method, like a phone call, to prevent fraud.
Don’t Let Hackers Exploit Your School This Tax Season
Tax season doesn’t have to be an open invitation for hackers. By staying vigilant, educating your team, and implementing proactive cybersecurity measures, you can safeguard your school’s financial and student data.
Ensure your school’s network is secure by scheduling a FREE Discovery Call today. Our experts will help identify vulnerabilities and protect your infrastructure from cyber threats.
Click here to schedule your FREE Discovery Call now!
