Free checks to protect against cyber attacks
Two National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) cyber security services, which are already helping thousands of organisations to protect their websites and email servers from cyber attacks, are now available to all UK schools.
Both tools are available free of charge, are quick to set up, and thereafter run automatically.
Free website check
The first service, Web Check, helps to identify and fix common security issues in websites. Web Check automatically scans the websites for common web vulnerabilities and misconfigurations. The service will automatically send a report with the scan results, categorised by severity, together with advice on how to fix any identified problems. Schools should act on any recommendations in these reports and, if necessary, seek advice from a trusted supplier if you are unsure what to do.
Free email check
The other service, Mail Check, helps assess email security compliance and adopts secure email standards. Put simply, Mail Check makes it harder for attackers to spoof email users by helping to set up and maintain good Sender Policy Framework (SPF), Domain Keys Identified Mail (DKIM), and Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance (DMARC) configurations. Mail Check requires a little more input and an ongoing commitment from the school (or its suppliers) to set up. Thereafter, Mail Check will generate email notifications to alert you if there have been changes in the email security.
Enquiries
For any generic enquiries relating to cyber security in your school, please contact sector.securityenquiries@education.gov.uk.
Website health checks
Our support means you can focus on education, while we take care of some of your organisation’s other needs. For example, our comprehensive website health check ensures your school’s website is performing for you, complies with all obligations, and provides the relevant information. You will receive a full, detailed report on our findings with actionable improvements where required. Get in touch for a free consultation about how we can help you.