Please answer ASAP!!!

Research Topic: Ransomware attacks on K-12 schools

BLUF Statement: The persistent surge in ransomware attacks targeting K-12 schools underscores the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures, as a failure to address this issue will likely lead to disruptions of education and compromised student data, endangering the future of our education system.

1. The frequency and scale of ransomware attacks on K-12 schools from 2013 to the present.

To prove this point, I will rely on a comprehensive review of incident reports, cybersecurity databases, and statistics documenting ransomware attacks on K-12 schools. The sources will include data from different organizations including the Department of Education and cybersecurity firms specializing in education. By doing so, it provides a clear picture of the frequency and scale of these incidents, helping to establish the scope of the problem.

2. The vulnerabilities in K-12 school systems that make them appealing targets for ransomware attackers.

This point will be proven by referencing research studies and expert analysis of the vulnerabilities within school systems. Common vulnerabilities may include outdated software, inadequate cybersecurity protocols, or gaps in staff training. Recognizing these weaknesses is crucial for developing effective security strategies.

3. The potential consequences and impacts of these attacks, including disruptions of education and compromised student data.

To prove this point, I will look into real-world incidents and their consequences, citing specific ransomware attacks on K-12 schools that resulted in educational disruptions, data breaches, or financial costs. I will explore how these attacks disrupt the normal functioning of schools, affecting students' learning, data integrity, and community trust. Understanding the broader implications helps underscore the urgency of addressing this issue.

4. The evolving tactics and strategies employed by cybercriminals in targeting K-12 schools.

This point will be proved by analyzing evolving ransomware tactics and strategies reported by cybersecurity firms and government agencies. I will include examples of ransomware variants specifically targeting educational institutions, describing their strategies and any evolution over time. This will analyze how cybercriminals adapt and modify their methods to breach school systems. This is essential for staying ahead of attackers and developing proactive defense strategies.

5. The significance of cybersecurity measures and policies to protect the future of our education system.

To prove this point, I will include educational policies, best practices, and recommendations from government bodies, educational associations, and cybersecurity experts. This will emphasize the significance of proactive cybersecurity measures, including policy changes, technology upgrades, and staff training. This is important to improve the overall resilience of educational institutions against ransomware attacks.

Above are 5 points that need to be proven in the research. For each point do the following:

Identify at least 5 separate sources you intend to use in your final paper and at least 2 sources you will not be using in your final paper due to sourcing concerns.

Foreach source:

• Provide a full citation.
• Specify the type of source it is (e.g. OSint, CYBINT, COMINT, HUMINT, etc. it might be more than 1!) and why.
• Verify that there has not been an update, correction, or another reason why the material in the source changed and should no longer be trusted.
• Provide a quality and reliability assessment and explain why it deserves that rating (~2 sentences).
• Specify at least 1 bias in/by the source and explain why you think the source has that bias.
• Explain at least 1 assumption by the source and explain why you think the source is making that assumption.
• Document any issues you think the source may have (e.g. it was published the day after the incident and may be incomplete, etc.)
• Just for the 2 sources you will not be using, do the above and document 3 reasons why you will not be using the source.

Please provide reliable sources and answer well to get the point across.