Bermuda’s economy is highly connected and globally relevant, which makes it an attractive target for cybercriminals. As a hub for finance, insurance, tourism, and government services, the island’s organizations handle a high volume of valuable data. With the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA) now fully in force as of January 2025, businesses must be more vigilant than ever—data breaches can now result in significant regulatory and financial consequences.
The Cyber Threat Landscape in Bermuda
Cyberattacks are no longer a distant problem. In 2023, Bermuda’s government experienced a sophisticated cyberattack that disrupted multiple public services. Local cybersecurity experts warn that attacks are growing more frequent and more advanced, targeting organizations of every size and sector.
Key Cybersecurity Threats
Phishing and Business Email Compromise (BEC)
Deceptive emails and messages remain one of the most effective ways for attackers to steal credentials or trick employees into authorizing fraudulent transactions.
Ransomware Attacks
Attackers use ransomware to encrypt files and demand payment, sometimes threatening to leak stolen data if a ransom isn’t paid.
Supply Chain Vulnerabilities
More organizations rely on cloud providers and third-party vendors to manage data and operations. If a vendor is breached, your data could be exposed even if your own network is secure.
Unpatched Systems
Failing to update systems quickly leaves open doors for attackers to exploit known vulnerabilities.
Insider Threats
Employees and contractors with excessive permissions can accidentally—or deliberately—cause harm to critical systems or data.
Case Study: PowerSchool Breach
In January 2025, Bermuda’s Department of Education confirmed that its student information provider, PowerSchool, suffered a significant cyberattack. Hackers gained access to a management console and exfiltrated sensitive information including names, addresses, dates of birth, and some medical alert data for students and staff.
Even though the breach occurred within a third-party system, it had a direct impact on Bermuda’s public schools. This event highlights the importance of monitoring vendor security, establishing clear contractual obligations for data protection, and having a plan to respond quickly if a partner is compromised.
Protecting Your Business
Bermuda businesses can take concrete steps to strengthen their security posture:
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) across critical accounts.
- Train staff regularly on phishing detection and secure data handling.
- Audit vendor security and include cybersecurity clauses in agreements.
- Apply patches and updates promptly to close known vulnerabilities.
- Create and test an incident response plan to minimize downtime if a breach occurs.
- Explore cyber insurance to manage financial risk.
Moving Forward
The PowerSchool breach is a clear reminder that cybersecurity is more than an internal IT issue; it’s a business priority. Protecting sensitive data means assessing vendor risk, training employees, and having a plan in place for when incidents occur. Organizations that take action now will be in a stronger position to keep systems running, maintain customer confidence, and respond quickly to whatever comes next.
About ACT
Applied Computer Technologies (ACT) is a full-service IT provider, specializing in Reinsurance and Finance. Services include Cloud Services, IT Services and Support, Microsoft 365 and Azure Services, Business Continuity, Telephony and Virtual CIO Services. ACT has locations in Bermuda, Cayman Islands and Canada, with customers worldwide.
For the latest industry trends and technology insights visit ACT’s main Blog page.
