Cybersecurity Basics
Protecting university data starts with everyday habits. These simple cybersecurity practices can help safeguard your personal information, research, and our university systems.
Create Strong Passwords
- Use passwords that are at least 16 characters long.
- Create a unique password for every account.
- Use a random mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Use a password manager to generate and securely store long passwords.
Use Multifactor Authentication
- Enable multifactor authentication on every account that offers it.
- Use an authenticator app, such as Duo, Google Authenticator, or Microsoft Authenticator.
- Use biometric authentication, such as FaceID or fingerprint recognition, when available.
Keep Software Updated
- Enable automatic updates whenever possible.
- Regularly check that your operating systems, browsers, applications, and devices are up to date.
- Restart devices when updates require it so security fixes can be fully applied.
Recognize and Avoid Scams
- Be highly skeptical of unexpected messages, especially those that create a sense of urgency.
- Take a few extra seconds to carefully review emails, texts, calls, and direct messages before responding.
- Watch for emotional triggers such as fear or excitement.
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month
Learn from Real-World Cybercrime Stories
It’s easy to believe cybercriminals are not real until your own information is compromised. Cybercriminals count on everyday mistakes like reusing passwords, skipping software updates, taking shortcuts, or clicking before thinking. Get to know the people behind cybercrime and learn easy, effective ways to better protect yourself every day.
Click on the stories to learn how to make life difficult for cybercriminals.
A cybercriminal who can crack 1,000 passwords a second. Outsmart him with 16-character, unique passwords!
A cybercriminal group hunting for outdated software. Stop their hunt by updating your devices and apps.
A massive Myanmar scam operation who wants you to fall for their tricks. Resist the bait - think before you click!
How ITS is Protecting You
Behind the scenes, Information Technology Services (ITS) works every day to protect campus systems, monitor emerging threats, and provide the tools, technologies, and training needed to keep our university secure. Our security professionals continuously analyze threats, respond to incidents, and strengthen defenses across the university environment, blocking more than 2 billion cyberattack attempts every day.
Trusted Resources
Looking for additional resources to further strengthen your digital habits and protect university data? Check out these vetted organizations and tools below.
National Cybersecurity Alliance
Access infographics, guides, and awareness materials that are great for sharing with your department or student group.
CISA
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) offers alerts, guidance, tools, training, and resources to strengthen security and resilience.
Cybsafe Annual Report
Read the "Oh, Behave!" report and gain insights into how people think and act around cybersecurity.