10 cyber security ‘Dos’ and ‘Don’ts’ your staff and students need to hear

Between laptops, mobile phones and tablets, there’s now plenty of ways for staff and students to access and share information across your campus. 

But there’s also more ways they can be hit with computer viruses or be victims of cyber crime.

Make sure your college is actively reminding students and staff about the importance of cyber security.

Pass-along tips

Here are five cyber security “Dos” from Campus Safety Magazine to pass along to students and staff:

1. DO use multifactor authentication. Many secure websites now offer security options beyond a username and password, like PINs or security images. Take advantage of the increased security.
2. DO change your passwords often. Passwords should be changed on a quarterly basis. If you need to write them down, keep them somewhere safe away from your computer.
3. DO upload to the cloud. Use cloud systems to backup and share non-confidential information.
4. DO use removable hardware for back ups. Store your backup device in a safe location.
5. DO read email headers carefully. Make sure they are coming from a reputable source. If possible, format your inbox so that you can read the first few lines of the message without actually opening the email.

These five “Don’ts” will give them additional security as well:

1. DON’T be fooled by copycats. Read email sources, wireless connection names, etc. carefully. Make sure you’re not being fooled by names that are only similar to trusted sources.
2. DON’T use the same password for your personal and corporate accounts. Similarly, don’t use a password you’ve used in the past for a personal account for your corporate account and vice versa.
3. DON’T assume you’re covered forever by anti-virus software. Update your security software so that you have the latest defenses.
4. DON’T leave your security up to someone else. That means locking your computer when you step away from it and being proactive about maintaining security.
5. DON’T wait until it’s too late. Seek advice from your college’s IT department before you have a security issue.

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