Online learning offers unequaled convenience and flexibility to students. But it also carries distinct risks: cyber intrusions, data breaches, and damage to technology resources. How can you provide students with a quality online education while protecting their personal data and your institution’s assets?
While cybersecurity is a year-round concern, October’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month offers an opportunity to address a critical issue for institutions offering or considering online programs: safeguarding your online learning platform.
Choose a Secure Online Learning Platform
Every online program runs on a specific platform, and options are growing as demand for online learning increases. Even sophisticated organizations like the Pentagon have been compromised, underscoring the importance of due diligence in choosing a highly secure platform.
Your institution’s data, finances, and reputation could be at stake. To make an informed decision about your online learning platform:
-Conduct extensive research.
-Review user feedback.
-Engage with the provider’s IT and security team.
-Consult other institutions about their experiences.
Consult Experts for Setup
Once you’ve chosen an online learning platform, collaborate with the provider’s security experts and your IT personnel to ensure proper implementation with all possible safeguards in place. Consult with these individuals regularly.
Provide Up-to-Date Training
Ensure your IT personnel receive comprehensive training on both your institution’s cybersecurity tools and the online learning platform’s security features. As those systems evolve, ongoing training is essential. Ideally, your platform’s provider should keep you informed about any significant updates.
Embrace Continuous Improvement
Regularly audit, update, and expand your cybersecurity toolkit and protocols. Cybercriminals are constantly developing new ways around existing security methods, so you’ll need to employ a multitude of tools and tactics to combat their efforts, including:
-Multifactor authentication
-Encryption
-Malware protection software
-Data backup
-Antivirus software
-Firewalls
Involve All Stakeholders
Cybersecurity lapses can impact your entire institution. Educate students and faculty about the risks and their role in maintaining security. Provide clear guidelines on proper login procedures and how to identify potential threats. Issue alerts widely and promptly as new threats emerge.
Choose Your Partners Wisely
Selecting a reputable online program manager to help bring your programs online and maintain them is just as crucial as choosing a secure online learning platform. Find a partner committed to security compliance and thoroughly vet their cybersecurity tools and protocols before making a final decision.
Put Your Trust in Apollidon
Apollidon Learning offers end-to-end online education marketing and support, customized to your specifications. Whether you’re launching your first online program or expanding your current offerings, we provide the services you need to achieve your enrollment goals, including:
-Custom branding and web development
-Content creation and targeted outreach
-Competitive analysis
-Data analytics
-SRM infrastructure tailored for online higher education
-Student outreach and engagement services
Apollidon is a FERPA-compliant company and our experienced personnel, including a skilled IT team, are committed to protecting your institution, its valued students, faculty, and staff.
Contact Apollidon today to learn how we can help you achieve your online learning goals securely and effectively. We look forward to assisting you!
Sources:
https://www.linkedin.com/advice/0/how-can-you-secure-online-learning-platforms
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/career-resources/online-learning-platforms/
https://campuscommerce.com/safeguarding-virtual-campus-higher-ed/
https://elearningindustry.com/ensuring-elearning-security-safeguarding-your-online-education-venture-against-cyber-threats