Alright mate! Have you heard the latest buzzword going around the water cooler? It’s PowerSchool. Now you might be thinking, what’s that and why should I care?
Let’s put it this way – you should care, especially if you’re in the thrilling world of education. Without going into too many details, let’s just say there’s been a break-in. But no one nicked any laptops or pinched any pens. No, they took something much more valuable: data.
I’m not talking about a few misplaced emails or tardy slips. I’m talking serious information from both teachers and students. Seems like the modern-age robbers prefer ones and zeros to pounds and pence. That’s why I am urging teachers, parents, and all in between to brace for impact.
First things first, let’s talk about how teachers can protect themselves. Call Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax and freeze your credit report. This can put a stopper on any criminals opening accounts under your name. Don’t worry, you don’t need to trudge through any paperwork. Fill in all the necessary details online and you’re set to go. One word of warning though, this isn’t a one-stop solution. Stay sharp and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.
Now, let’s address the parents. You might have a nagging feeling that your child’s Social Security Number (SSN) might be floating around in the helter-skelter of PowerSchool’s wrecked databases. I suggest checking to see if your little one has a credit report. Remember, if they are under 18, they generally shouldn’t have one. If your kid does happen to have a credit report, and you suspect it’s fraudulent, be proactive and challenge it.
I understand it’s a bit tedious given credit reporting bureaus typically require you to mail in inquiries. What we’re dealing with is annoying but vital. You might also want to consider placing a fraud alert on your child’s name. I’m just laying out the facts here. You can never be extra safe when it comes to your child’s protection from online villains.
Now for the lot who’ve been affected, regardless if you’re a teacher, parent or former student. It’s a good idea to file a police report. It provides a solid record that you reported the theft of your information, before Basil the Burglar strikes.
Next, give your bank and credit card issuers a call. Ask them to set up an alert on your account. A quick heads up can go a long way if your information finds itself in the wrong hands. Also, if you’ve used the same password for important accounts, change them immediately, and resist any temptation to add “2025” or an exclamation point at the end.
Now on the subject of PowerSchool, I can’t predict what they’ll offer people. They may extend olive branches like free credit monitoring and identity theft restoration services – but only to those whose SSN have been exposed.
Remember, school districts are bound by state laws too. It’s a good idea to dig up your state’s breach notification laws. Unfortunately, we’re yet to come across a comprehensive list of notification requirements for student data breaches in any national council table.
I hope this advice assists you in staying a step ahead of digital baddies. It’s now or never: suit up, stay vigilant, and stand firm. You’ve got this!
by Parker Bytes
