TriVigil: Empowering Educational Institutions against Cyber Threats
Avni Trivedi, CEO
“We are the only cybersecurity company 100 percent dedicated to the education sector. Together, we can ensure a safer digital environment where education thrives without the fear of cyberattacks,” says Avni Trivedi, CEO of TriVigil.
The Growing Threat of Cyberattacks in Education
Education is one of the most targeted sectors by cybercriminals. In 2023, attacks on educational institutions increased by approximately 70 percent yearly, with groups like Vice constantly posing a threat.
Attacks often start small before escalating into more severe breaches. For example, the high-profile ransomware attack on LAUSD disrupted operations and compromised data security. Despite some progress, the infrastructure still needs to be improved to protect the data of a large population of vulnerable students and adults.
This highlights a critical point—just purchasing software solutions is not enough. The relentless nature of these attacks requires a comprehensive, well-rounded strategy—exactly what TriVigil offers.
A Threefold Strategy for Safeguarding Educational Institutions
TriVigil’s strategy for safeguarding educational institutions is built on three essential pillars—people, policy, and technology, which work in unison to provide a robust defense against cyber threats. Trivedi explains, “What we bring to the table goes beyond technology. Our three pillars strengthen our commitment to provide a more resilient defense against cyber threats.”
However, with the ongoing shortage of cyber professionals, many schools struggle to find the right expertise to navigate complex security challenges. TriVigil addresses this by providing services for the Virtual Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and Advisory Chief Information Officers (CIOs). “Our experts understand cybersecurity and know how these principles apply specifically to educational institutions,” adds Trivedi. This hands-on support empowers schools to address their unique challenges.
Another critical component of TriVigil’s strategy is Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC). As more states mandate GRC implementation, the company believes this should go beyond a checkbox exercise. Its GRC experts conduct thorough risk assessments, helping institutions stay ahead of audits and lower their cyber insurance premiums.
TriVigil strengthens its approach by partnering with industry leaders to offer cutting-edge yet cost-effective technology solutions tailored to the education sector’s needs. TriVigil helps educational institutions build a resilient cybersecurity posture that can withstand evolving threats by integrating people, policy, and technology.
Empowering Schools to Build Stronger Cybersecurity Postures
Trivedi often encounters concerns from K12 leaders, such as, “I think we are secure, but I am not sure,” or “I don’t know what I don’t know; where do we even begin?” These uncertainties make it difficult to implement effective cybersecurity measures, leaving schools vulnerable to threats.
TriVigil developed the Quick Start Program—a focused, four-hour initiative that provides schools with a clear roadmap for improving their cybersecurity posture. Based on the NIST-800 framework, the program identifies areas for improvement and offers actionable insights to help schools achieve their security goals.
One of TriVigil’s early successes with its Quick Start Program was at Springtown ISD. By working closely with the Director of IT, TriVigil provided the guidance needed to prepare for an upcoming audit.
The Quick Start Program simplified the cybersecurity process for Springtown ISD, equipping them with the tools necessary to strengthen their overall security posture.
Another critical component of TriVigil’s strategy is Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC). As more states mandate GRC implementation, the company believes this should go beyond a checkbox exercise. Its GRC experts conduct thorough risk assessments, helping institutions stay ahead of audits and lower their cyber insurance premiums.
TriVigil strengthens its approach by partnering with industry leaders to offer cutting-edge yet cost-effective technology solutions tailored to the education sector’s needs. TriVigil helps educational institutions build a resilient cybersecurity posture that can withstand evolving threats by integrating people, policy, and technology.
Empowering Schools to Build Stronger Cybersecurity Postures
Trivedi often encounters concerns from K12 leaders, such as, “I think we are secure, but I am not sure,” or “I don’t know what I don’t know; where do we even begin?” These uncertainties make it difficult to implement effective cybersecurity measures, leaving schools vulnerable to threats.
TriVigil developed the Quick Start Program—a focused, four-hour initiative that provides schools with a clear roadmap for improving their cybersecurity posture. Based on the NIST-800 framework, the program identifies areas for improvement and offers actionable insights to help schools achieve their security goals.
One of TriVigil’s early successes with its Quick Start Program was at Springtown ISD. By working closely with the Director of IT, TriVigil provided the guidance needed to prepare for an upcoming audit.
The Quick Start Program simplified the cybersecurity process for Springtown ISD, equipping them with the tools necessary to strengthen their overall security posture.
With clear objectives and specific areas for improvement, the Director felt empowered to meet the key performance indicators (KPIs).
The program has since grown in importance, especially with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) launching a $200M pilot program that allows schools to use E-rate funding for cybersecurity solutions. TriVigil’s program is now positioned to help schools, especially in underserved rural areas, quickly assess their cybersecurity needs and apply for these critical funds.
With a former Superintendent, a higher education CIO, and a K12 CIO on its team, TriVigil brings a profound understanding of cybersecurity’s complexities, allowing it to tailor its expertise to educational institutions’ unique needs.
TriVigil is the only cybersecurity company dedicated to the education sector. With a singular focus, it tailors its solutions, ensuring the best possible support for customers. Its deep understanding of educational institutions’ unique challenges sets it apart from competitors that serve multiple industries.
As cyberattacks grow in frequency and severity, schools must recognize that cybersecurity is no longer optional but essential. With TriVigil as a partner, educational institutions can face the digital challenges ahead with confidence, knowing they are equipped to protect not just their data but the promise of a safer, brighter future for the next generation.
The program has since grown in importance, especially with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) launching a $200M pilot program that allows schools to use E-rate funding for cybersecurity solutions. TriVigil’s program is now positioned to help schools, especially in underserved rural areas, quickly assess their cybersecurity needs and apply for these critical funds.
TriVigil offers long-term support to ensure success. It has established a Higher Education Advisory Council of esteemed CIOs committed to developing a sustainable, scalable, and optimized cybersecurity framework for higher education institutions. These councils aim to foster collaboration and share best practices, ensuring strategies are aligned with the evolving needs of the education sector. Through this initiative, TriVigil builds stronger defenses against cyber threats and creates safer environments for students and educators.We are the only cybersecurity company 100 percent dedicated to the education sector. Together, we can ensure a safer digital environment where education thrives without the fear of cyberattacks
With a former Superintendent, a higher education CIO, and a K12 CIO on its team, TriVigil brings a profound understanding of cybersecurity’s complexities, allowing it to tailor its expertise to educational institutions’ unique needs.
TriVigil is the only cybersecurity company dedicated to the education sector. With a singular focus, it tailors its solutions, ensuring the best possible support for customers. Its deep understanding of educational institutions’ unique challenges sets it apart from competitors that serve multiple industries.
As cyberattacks grow in frequency and severity, schools must recognize that cybersecurity is no longer optional but essential. With TriVigil as a partner, educational institutions can face the digital challenges ahead with confidence, knowing they are equipped to protect not just their data but the promise of a safer, brighter future for the next generation.
