Online Security Basics
Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility; but, if you’re not sure where to start, see the list below for a few easy tips for keeping your digital life secure.
Links found within the list will connect TWU students, faculty and staff to TWU Information Security resources.
- Keep your devices, systems and software (apps) up-to-date.
- Always have current/updated anti-virus TWU offers Malwarebytes for TWU assets, but a home version is available for Windows, Mac and mobile devices as well.
- Avoid and report phishing (email), vishing (phone) and smishing (text message) scams. These social engineering threats may come to your TWU email, phone or RingCentral account as well as your personal email or phone.
- Use a complex password for each account you have. Each account should have a unique password that is not shared between accounts or family/friends. Using a password manager can assist with password management.
- Be careful where and what you click. Malicious websites may be cleverly disguised as advertisements, games or other links. Hover over links before clicking to verify that you are going to the intended website.
- Never leave your computer or devices unattended. Physically secure devices by locking your office door and lock screens before stepping away from a device. Any open system is an open invitation to your data.
- Utilize multi-factor authentication on accounts, where possible.
- Secure your mobile device. Enable auto-lock functionality for lock screens and ensure your device requires a passcode, fingerprint, or similar factor to “unlock” it prior to use.
- Protect your data and use encryption on devices, where available. Enable “remote wipe” functionality on mobile devices to delete data if the device is lost or stolen.
- For personal files, back up your data. Hard drives can fail, and the data may not be recoverable. Secure cloud storage or an external drive are easy and convenient options for data backup.
- Use web conferencing best practices to keep meetings secure.
- When shopping online or sharing sensitive data, ensure that the information is encrypted by looking for “https” or a lock icon in your address bar.
- Be smart about what you share on social media. Don’t overshare and assume all posts may become public. Update your privacy settings on social media apps and be aware of social media app integrations and the information that apps can access on your device.
- Be sure to monitor your financial and social media accounts for suspicious activity.
- Social engineering is prevalent in the physical world too. An unassuming stranger may attempt to gather personal information. Where are you from originally? What’s your pet’s name? Favorite vacation spot? Be aware and think before engaging in these conversations. The answers to these questions could result in compromised accounts.
Page last updated 1:10 PM, March 3, 2021