Secure Computing Tips
#1 - You are a target to hackers
Don't ever tell me this happened to me We are all at risk, and a lot is at stake - for your personal and financial well-being, as well as for the reputation and position of the university
Keeping campus computing resources secure is everyone's responsibility
By following the tips below and remaining vigilent, your are doing your part to protect yourself and other
#2 - Keep software up to date
Installing software updates for your operating system and programs is critical. Always install the latest security updates for your devices
Turn on Automatic Updates for your operating system.
Use web browsers such as chrome or Firefox that receive frequent, automatic security updates.
Make sure to keep browser plug-ins (Flash,java,etc.) up to date
Utilize Secunia PSI (free) to find other software on your computers that needs to be updated.
#3 - Avoid Phishing scams - beware of suspicious emails phone calls
Phishing scams are a constant threat. Using various methods of psychological manipulation (external connection), cyber criminals try to trick you into revealing personal information such as your login ID and password, as well as bank or credit card information.
Phishing scams can be carried out by phone, text or through sosial networking sites - but most commonly by email.
Be suspicious of any official-looking email message or phone call that asks for personal or financial information.
#4 - Practice good password management
We all have too many passwords to manage - and easy shortcuts to use reusing the same passwords. A password management program (external link) can help you maintain unique passwords for all your accounts. These programs can generate strong passwords for you, automatically enter your login information, and remind you to update your passwords regularly.
There are several online password management service that offer free versions, and keePass (link is external) is a free application for mac and windows.
Here are some general password tips to keep mind
1. Use long passwords - 20 characters or more in recommended
2.Use a combination of strong characters and the same password is never suggested again.
3.Don't share your password and don't write them down (especially not on a post-it note attached to your monitor)
4.Update your passwords periodically, at least once every 6 month (90 days is better
#5 - Be carefull what you click
Avoid visiting unfamiliar websites or downloading software from unreliable sources. These websites often host malware that automatically and often secretly infiltrates your computer.
If attachment or links in email are unexpected or suspicious for any reason, don't click on it
ISPs recommend using "Click to Pay" or Noscript (the link is external), a browser add-on feature that prevents plug-ins from automatically downloading content, and scripts that may contain malicious code
#6 - Never Leave Devices unattended
The physical security of your devices is just as important as their technical security.
if you need to leave your laptop, phone, or tablet for any length of time - lock it up no one else can use it.
if you keep sensitive information on a flash drive or external hard drive, make sure to keep these locked as well.
For desktop computers, shut-down the system when not in use - or lock your screen.
#7 - protect sensitive data
Be aware of the sensitive data you come into contact with and the limitations that accompany it. Read the UCB Data Classification Standards to understand data protection level requirements. In general
Securely remove sensitive data files from your system when they are no longer needed.
Always use encryption when storing or transmitting sensitive data.
#8 - Use mobile devices safely
Considering how much we rely on our mobile devices, and how susceptible they are to attack, you 'll want to make sure you are protected.
Lock your devices with PIN or passwords - and never leave it unprotected in public
Only install apps from trusted sources.
Keep your device's operating system updated
Don't click on links or attachments from unsolicted emails or texts.
Avoid transmitting or storing personal information on the device.
Most handheld devices are capable of employing data encryption - consult your device's documentation for available options.
Use Apple's Find my iPhone or the android devices manager tools to help prevent loss or theft
Backup your data.
#9 - Install anti-virus protection
Install only antivirus from known and trusted sources. Always keep your virus definitions, engine, and software up to date to ensure your antivirus continues to function.
For personally-owned systems and unmanaged UCB owned computers, the campus offers free anti-virus software, available for windows and mac, to current faculty, staff, and students.
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