Hackers just stole data from 9,000 schools and unis around the world. How can we protect student privacy?

Co-authored and published an expert analysis article in The Conversation titled “Hackers just stole data from 9,000 schools and unis around the world. How can we protect student privacy?” following the global cyber security incident affecting the Canvas learning management system.

The article examined the implications of large-scale cyber attacks targeting education technology platforms, discussing platform concentration risk, student privacy, cyber resilience, cloud-based education systems, and the growing challenges associated with protecting sensitive student information in increasingly digital learning environments.

The article provided evidence-based recommendations for schools, universities, governments, and education technology providers, including stronger cyber governance, multi-factor authentication, zero-trust security architectures, vendor oversight, encryption, cyber awareness initiatives, and enhanced protection for sensitive student wellbeing information.

This public scholarship activity translated contemporary cyber security research into accessible advice for policymakers, educators, institutions, students, and the broader community. The article contributed to national and international discussions on cyber resilience within the education sector and enhanced the visibility of the University of Canberra's expertise in cyber security, digital trust, and privacy protection.

Publication Details

The Conversation, 8 May 2026

Authors: Abu Barkat Ullah (University of Canberra) and Mohiuddin Ahmed (Adelaide University)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64628/AA.uxj9v6rq7