Examining the Influence of Advanced Persistent Threats on Higher Education Institutions and Investigating Appropriate Cybersecurity Strategies
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Researchers |
Nadim Ibrahim and N.R. Rajalakshmi |
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Published in |
U.Porto Journal of Engineering, volume 11, No. 2, pp. 96 - 119, October 2025. |
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Abstract |
Higher Education Institutions are high-value targets for Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs), safeguarding troves of sensitive data within inherently open networks. This paper confronts the critical challenge of defending academic environments by introducing a novel, holistic framework: the Academic Cyber Defense Matrix (ACDM). The ACDM strategically integrates adaptive threat detection, context-aware traffic analysis, and policy-compliant data handling into a unified defense ecosystem. It operationalizes intelligence through automated response playbooks and a continuous learning loop, creating a dynamic shield that evolves with the threat landscape. Beyond this architectural innovation, the study provides a prioritized set of risk-based recommendations, offering HEI leaders a clear and actionable roadmap for strategic investment. This work delivers a vital blueprint for transitioning from fragmented defenses to a resilient, intelligent security posture capable of protecting the core academic mission against sophisticated cyber assaults. Keywords: Advanced Persistent Threats, Cybersecurity Strategies, Information Security, Threat Intelligence, Academic Environments, Incidents Response, Data Breaches. |
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Link to full paper |
