Smoothwall debuts Cloud Scan to help schools detect harmful content in cloud storage
Automated detection tool aims to support compliance with UK safeguarding regulations
Smoothwall, a digital safety provider that forms part of Qoria, has introduced Cloud Scan, an automated platform designed to detect potentially harmful or inappropriate imagery stored in school cloud drives.
The software, which scans cloud storage every 24 hours, is aimed at helping IT teams in schools, colleges, and multi-academy trusts (MATs) identify and flag concerning content. It alerts designated safeguarding leads, allowing them to take timely action while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Supporting safeguarding responsibilities
Cloud Scan has been developed in response to the increasing volume of digital content stored across school networks. The platform’s launch aligns with expectations outlined in the UK government's Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) guidance, which emphasizes the need for proactive approaches to digital safety.
According to Smoothwall, many institutions may unknowingly store harmful imagery. Cloud Scan addresses this risk by providing continuous background monitoring, with AI-powered classification of flagged content. The system categorizes images by risk type and supplies contextual data to help staff make informed decisions, including whether to remove flagged images or clear them as non-threatening.
Designed to reduce workload and improve response times
Rob Faulkner, Vice President of Product at Smoothwall, said:
“Schools need a simple, effective way to monitor and manage content stored in the cloud without placing extra strain on IT teams. Cloud Scan provides an efficient, automated solution that ensures harmful imagery is detected early, helping schools maintain a compliant and safe digital environment.”
The tool has been developed to limit the administrative burden on safeguarding staff by offering clear, actionable insights. It is also intended to reduce the likelihood of harmful content being circulated among students or retained on school systems undetected.
Faulkner added: “By integrating AI-powered detection with clear, actionable insights, Cloud Scan supports schools in meeting safeguarding and compliance requirements while reinforcing responsible digital use.”
