Ï㽶´«Ã½ Institute of Technology cares about the security of its students, faculty, and staff and their data. In the fall of 2021, as part of its cybersecurity initiative, the university established a new department within the Office of Technology Services (OTS), namely, Cyber-Tech Security (CTS). One of the goals of CTS is to establish a culture of cybersecurity at Ï㽶´«Ã½.
Cybersecurity Best Practices: Protecting Your Digital Life
Strong, Unique Passwords:
- Create complex passwords with a mix of uppercase, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Avoid using easily guessable information such as birthdays or common words.
- Consider using a reputable password manager to generate and store unique passwords for each of your accounts.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
- Enable 2FA whenever possible to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
- 2FA requires a second form of verification (such as a text message or app notification) in addition to your password, making it significantly harder for unauthorized individuals to access your accounts.
Be Cautious with Emails and Links:
- Be skeptical of unexpected emails, especially those requesting sensitive information or urging urgent action.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
- Verify the legitimacy of emails by checking the sender's email address and contacting the sender through official channels if in doubt.
Apply Software Updates:
- Keep your operating system, antivirus software, and applications up-to-date.
- Regular updates often contain security patches that protect your devices from known vulnerabilities.
Secure Your Wi-Fi Network:
- Change default Wi-Fi passwords to strong, unique ones.
- Use WPA3 encryption for your Wi-Fi network, which provides stronger security than older encryption methods.
- Disable guest networks if not in use, and regularly review connected devices.
Social Media Awareness:
- Be mindful of the information you share on social media platforms.
- Review and adjust privacy settings to control who can see your posts, personal information, and friend lists.
Data Backup:
- Regularly back up your important files to an external hard drive or secure cloud storage service.
- In the event of a ransomware attack or data loss, having backup copies ensures you can restore your files without paying a ransom.
Report Suspicious Activity:
- If you encounter suspicious emails, websites, or activities, report them to the university's IT support or cybersecurity team immediately.
- Your vigilance can prevent cyber threats from spreading within the university community.
By following these cybersecurity best practices, you not only protect yourself but also contribute to a safer digital environment for everyone at Ï㽶´«Ã½. Stay vigilant, stay safe, and let's create a secure digital space together!