TLP: CLEAR In a June 30, 2025 joint fact sheet, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Department of Defense (DOD) Cyber Crime Center (DC3), and the National Security Agency (NSA) “strongly urge organizations to remain vigilant for potential targeted cyber activity against U.S. critical infrastructure and other… Read more »
REN-ISAC
Multi-Factor Authentication: Why It Matters for Higher Education and Research
Cybersecurity threats in higher education and research environments continue to evolve, and attackers are becoming more skilled at bypassing traditional defenses. One of the most effective ways to safeguard accounts and sensitive data is through multi-factor authentication (MFA). What MFA Is Multi-factor authentication adds an extra step to the login process beyond just a password…. Read more »
Strengthening Cybersecurity in Higher Education: A Collective Approach to Safeguarding Research and Learning
Ransomware attacks on colleges and universities increased 23% in the first half of 2025. In 2023, confirmed incidents surged 70% compared to 2022, indicating that higher education is a primary target. When attackers disable learning management systems or exfiltrate years of research data, academic operations halt, research progress stalls, and student confidence declines. The FBI… Read more »
REN-ISAC and OmniSOC Align to Better Support the Higher Education Cybersecurity Community
OmniSOC and the Research and Education Networks Information Sharing and Analysis Center (REN-ISAC) are formally aligning their efforts to deepen collaboration and better support the cybersecurity needs of the higher education and research community. This announcement was shared during the REN-ISAC annual member meeting on May 22, 2025. While the two organizations remain distinct in… Read more »
How Smaller Colleges and Minority Serving Institutions Can Boost Cyber Readiness Without Breaking the Bank
Colleges and universities of all sizes face cyber threats, but smaller schools and minority-serving institutions often don’t have the same resources to respond. With limited staff, tight budgets, and growing compliance demands, it can feel like you’re always playing catch-up. That’s where REN-ISAC comes in. It was built for higher education and understands the unique… Read more »
REN-ISAC members elect 2025 Steering Committee Representatives
We are pleased to announce the members on your 2025 Steering Committee, as elected by you. After holding Steering Committee elections, we have added three new committee members who are eager to represent our community (newly elected members noted in bold). Frank Barton, Husson University Paul Drake, Notre Dame Tim Goth, Indiana University Emily Harris,… Read more »
OmniSOC Con 2025: Advancing Cybersecurity Through Community and Leadership
Join us in person for this year’s OmniSOC Con 2025, an immersive two-day event focused on collaboration, insight, and strategy across the higher education and research security landscape. Dates: August 13–14, 2025 Location: Big Ten Conference Center, Rosemont, IL Who should attend OmniSOC Con 2025? This year’s conference returns in person to the Big Ten… Read more »
Join Us at Internet2 Community Exchange
We’re looking forward to attending the Internet2 Community Exchange in Anaheim, California, from April 28 to May 1. If you’ll be there, say hello! Representing our REN-ISAC team will be: Anthony Newmann, Executive Director Chip Conner-Rondot, Chief of Engagement & Presenter Shane Albright, Principal Security Engineer & Presenter Kyle Enlow, Information Security Assessment and Advisory… Read more »
Stay Connected to Cybersecurity in Higher Education—Follow REN-ISAC on LinkedIn
Cyber threats are an ongoing challenge for higher education and research institutions, making collaboration and information-sharing more critical than ever. REN-ISAC plays a key role in strengthening cybersecurity across these sectors, serving as a trusted alliance that helps institutions stay ahead of evolving risks. By following REN-ISAC on LinkedIn, you can stay informed about the… Read more »
Get Ready for the REN-ISAC Member Meeting 2025
Cyber threats continue to evolve, making it more important than ever for higher education and research institutions to stay informed and prepared. The REN-ISAC Member Meeting (RIMM) 2025 offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable cybersecurity insights, engage in peer-driven discussions, and strengthen your institution’s security posture. This members-only event is designed to provide practical… Read more »