Kiel blocks 1,700 iPads at schools to prevent security risks

The education authority in Kiel has disabled about 1,700 iPads across more than 30 schools after determining the devices — reportedly 7th‑generation iPads — no longer receive security updates. Local officials say the move was taken to preempt potential security vulnerabilities and protect school networks and student data.

According to local reporting, the school office took the devices out of service and made them unusable for classroom use. The decision reflects growing concerns among administrators about running aging hardware that cannot be patched against newly discovered threats.

What happened

• Scale: ~1,700 devices affected across 30+ schools.
• Device: 7th‑generation iPad models (no longer receiving security updates).
• Action taken: Devices were administratively disabled to prevent use on school networks.
• Reason: To avoid known or potential security vulnerabilities that could compromise data or infrastructure.

Why schools are taking this step

When hardware reaches end‑of‑support, vendors stop releasing security patches — leaving devices exposed to exploits. School IT teams must balance continuing to provide devices for learning with protecting students’ privacy and the wider network. Disabling unsupported devices is an emergency measure to reduce immediate risk.

Options for administrators and parents

• Replace or upgrade devices with models still supported by the vendor.
• Use Mobile Device Management (MDM) to limit functionality, restrict network access or isolate older devices on guest networks.
• Apply for funding, grants or bulk procurement programs to refresh school hardware systematically.
• Consider secure refurbishment where devices are factory wiped and repurposed for non‑sensitive tasks off the main network.

Broader context

This action in Kiel highlights a wider challenge for education systems worldwide: keeping classroom technology secure and up to date on tight budgets. As devices age, schools face periodic waves of replacement or creative mitigation strategies to maintain both safety and access to digital learning tools.

For local coverage, see the original report (opens in a new tab): iFun. For guidance on device lifecycle management, check resources from education and IT bodies on secure device retirement and MDM best practices.

Discussion: Do you think disabling unsupported school devices is the right emergency move, or should schools rely more on network isolation and MDM controls? What would you prioritize if you managed school IT on a tight budget?