VectorStack renowned for technological innovation partnered with a FinTech firm to enhance its operational efficiency and decision-making processes.

Our Case Study

Scaling Securely: How a UK EdTech Platform Partnered with VectorStack to Address Cybersecurity Risks and Expand Globally

VectorStack renowned for technological innovation partnered with a FinTech firm to enhance its operational efficiency and decision-making processes. 

 The FinTech industry, characterized by vast amounts of data and complex financial transactions was facing challenges in data analysis, fraud detection, and personalized customer service. Hence, the firm approached VectorStack’s expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to address these issues and optimize its operations.

Problem Overview:

Security Concerns Mount as EdTech Platform Expands Globally

A UK-based EdTech platform faced increasing security challenges as it expanded its global presence. Known for its virtual classrooms, personalized assessments, and adaptive learning features, the platform had gained significant trust as an educational tool. However, as the platform grew, the responsibility to safeguard sensitive data, including personal information, academic records, and payment details, became more critical.

Key Problems:

As the platform expanded into international markets, it faced escalating cyber security threats, including:

  • Unauthorized Access Attempts: Increased breaches due to inadequate security protocols.
  • Phishing Attacks: Users targeted by malicious actors seeking to exploit personal data.
  • Data Breaches: Risks stemming from insufficient compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR and FERPA.

Why the Change?

Compliance with global data regulations was crucial for building user trust and ensuring market acceptance. However, implementing stringent security measures presented challenges in maintaining a seamless user experience. To address these issues, the platform’s leadership partnered with VectorStack to develop a solution that would balance robust security with optimal usability.

Product Discovery:

Identifying Vulnerabilities and Prioritizing User Needs in EdTech Security

As the platform expanded into new international markets, existing security measures became increasingly inadequate to address evolving threats. In response, the leadership team initiated a comprehensive research phase aimed at identifying security vulnerabilities and formulating effective solutions to protect user data.
This phase revealed critical security gaps, including:

  • Weak Data Encryption: Insufficient encryption protocols left sensitive information exposed to potential threats.
  • Inadequate Role-Based Access Controls: Poorly implemented access controls heightened the risk of unauthorized data exposure.
  • Authentication Vulnerabilities: Flaws in the user authentication process resulted in unauthorized access and increased susceptibility to phishing attacks.

User Feedback Insights:

  • Students and Educators: Frustration with frequent login prompts disrupted the learning experience.
  • Administrators: Concerns over limited control of sensitive student data raised compliance risks.
  • Institutional Leaders: Sought assurances regarding GDPR and FERPA compliance to sustain long-term partnerships.

Why the Change?

With these insights, the company focused on defining effective security solutions that would address vulnerabilities and alleviate user concerns. The team explored advanced technologies such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), end-to-end encryption, and AI-driven threat detection to enhance platform security and ensure compliance.

Product Design & Build:

Building a Resilient, Compliant, and User-Friendly EdTech Platform

To address security concerns and support scalable growth without compromising user experience, the company partnered with VectorStack to implement a multi-layered solution that focused on enhanced data security, compliance management, and user experience improvements—all aimed at safeguarding user data while maintaining seamless platform functionality.

Product Design & Build:

Building a Resilient, Compliant, and User-Friendly EdTech Platform

To address security concerns and support scalable growth without compromising user experience, the company partnered with VectorStack to implement a multi-layered solution that focused on enhanced data security, compliance management, and user experience improvements—all aimed at safeguarding user data while maintaining seamless platform functionality.

Enhanced Data Security

  • End-to-End Encryption: Protects data throughout its entire lifecycle.
  • Role-Based Access Controls: Limits exposure and restricts unauthorized data access to ensure business data remains secure.

Enhanced Data Security

  • End-to-End Encryption: Protects data throughout its entire lifecycle.
  • Role-Based Access Controls: Limits exposure and restricts unauthorized data access to ensure business data remains secure.

Compliance Management

  • Automated Audits: Utilizes AWS tools to maintain ongoing compliance with GDPR and FERPA regulations.
  • Real-Time Compliance Reporting: Provides leadership with proactive insights to manage and close compliance gaps.

User-Centric Enhancements

  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Ensures secure, friction less access to the platform.
  • Single Sign-On (SSO): Simplifies login processes, reducing disruptions and improving user retention.

AI-Driven Threat Monitoring

  • Real-Time Anomaly Detection: Leverages TensorFlow to identify and mitigate security threats.
  • Automated Alerts: Provides timely notifications to facilitate rapid incident response and minimize risks.

Why the Change?

VectorStack’s solution not only strengthened the platform’s security infrastructure but also ensured compliance with global data protection regulations. These advancements helped restore user trust and enabled continued growth without compromising security. As a result, the platform achieved a secure, compliant, and user-friendly environment that reinforced its commitment to data protection while delivering a seamless educational experience.

Product Life cycle and Impact

Headline: Security Overhaul Fuels Growth: Trust, Engagement, and Compliance Soar
The comprehensive cyber security framework implemented by the company had a trans formative effect on the platform, driving substantial improvements in security, user experience, and regulatory compliance.

Key Results:

  • 40% reduction in security incidents, enhancing platform safety and bolstering user confidence.
  • 30% increase in user satisfaction, driven by transparent security measures.
  • 100% compliance with GDPR and FERPA, strengthening trust with international institutions.
  • 50% faster incident response time, minimizing disruption from security threats.
  • $200,000 in annual savings, reinvested into innovation and platform development.
  • 25% increase in user engagement, reflecting greater trust and interaction with the platform.

 

In summary, the company’s cybersecurity enhancements transformed the platform into a more secure, compliant, and user-friendly environment. These improvements in protection, regulatory alignment, and user experience have positioned the platform for sustained growth, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted educational tool. The result is a safer, more efficient platform that users can trust, ensuring continued success in an increasingly competitive and regulated market.

Conclusion:

Fortifying Security to Unlock Global Growth

By implementing a robust cyber security framework, the company transformed its platform into a secure, compliant, and user-friendly environment. This proactive approach to addressing vulnerabilities not only mitigated risks but also reinforced the platform’s reputation as a trusted educational tool.

Key Takeaways:

  • The seamless integration of security and compliance measures significantly enhanced user trust.
  • Balancing robust security with an optimal user experience ensured ongoing engagement and retention.
  • Advanced threat detection systems provided the necessary agility for global expansion.

Visualization & tables
Tech Stack

  • Front end: React.js
  • Back end: PHP, Python
  • Database: PostgreSQL
  • Cloud: AWS
  • AI/ML: TensorFlow, Scikit-learn