October 2024 Security Tips 

10.1.24

National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM)

October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month, a global initiative dedicated to educating individuals and organizations about cybersecurity threats and best practices. This month let’s prioritize Protecting Our House by understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to safeguard our personal and business data.  Read the article to find out how you can get more involved during NCSAM, and check out Information Security’s NCSAM page for games and how you can win prizes. 

10.7.24

Creating Strong Passwords

One of the simplest ways to protect yourself and the University is to use secure passwords for your accounts. Think of your password as the lock on the front door of your home. You want a robust and secure deadbolt to keep out any intruders. To protect yourself, University IT suggests:

  • Using long passphrases rather than a single password.
  • Using 12 or more characters, including spaces.
  • Avoiding the use of easy-to-guess dictionary words.
  • Using the university-provided password tool, Keeper, to store complex passwords safely.
  • Using multifactor authentication on your business and personal accounts, where applicable. The business uses Duo MFA while there are a variety of choices for personal use.

Visit the National Cybersecurity Awareness Month page for this week’s password game and learn how you can win a prize.

10.14.24

Phishing 101: Protecting yourself from online scams

Scammers who pretend to be from a legitimate bank, store, government agency, etc. and send official-looking emails, attempting to fool you into disclosing your personal information are known as “Phishers”. They’re main goal is to obtain your usernames, passwords, banking records, account numbers, or social security numbers. Often, they’ll try to get you to click on a link that either installs malware to your device or directs you to a fake website. Some phishers even imitate the University’s IT Help Desks. Any information they’re able to get from you can be used to steal your identity, commit financial fraud, or other malicious purposes. By understanding their tactics and taking proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to these scams. 

Visit the National Cybersecurity Awareness Month page for this week’s game and learn how you can win a prize.

10.21.24

Keep Your Software Updated

Regularly updating software plays an important role in protecting your data. Outdated software often contains vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malicious actors to gain access to systems and data. These vulnerabilities can be as simple as bugs in the code or as complex as unpatched security holes that could let a bad actor have access to your data. University provides best practices for updating your software. Don’t forget to visit the National Cybersecurity Awareness Month page for this week’s game and learn how you can win a prize.

10.28.24

What You Need to Know about Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Enable two-factor authentication(2FA) for any app or website that allows it. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. It requires you to provide not only your password but also a second form of identification, such as a push notification sent to your phone. This makes it much harder for unauthorized users to access your accounts, even if they know your password. Information Security provides guidance on various methods that can be used to perform two-factor authentication.  Don’t forget to visit the National Cybersecurity Awareness Month page for this week’s game and learn how you can win a prize.