Tech Bits: Learn how to do your part. #BeCyberSmart
Want to learn how to be more cyber secure? With October being Cybersecurity Awareness Month (previously known as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month), and being connected online now more than ever, Information Technology Services (ITS) will be sharing information all month long on how to protect your devices, yourself and others when online, so here are some tips to get started:
Securing Your Devices
Lock down your login by creating long and unique passwords for all accounts and using two step verification, such as Duo, wherever possible. If you turn on extra security for Temple websites, such as TUportal and Canvas, and enable the Duo Mobile app on your smartphone, you will only need to update your AccessNet password once a year. We also recommend using a password manager to help keep track of all your passwords if you need help remembering them.
Think before you click. If you receive an email with an enticing offer or urgent request, be cautious before clicking any links in the message. If an email looks 'phishy' – even if the details appear accurate – do not respond, click any links or open any attachments. Instead, use the TUmail Report Phish button to report the message and verify its legitimacy.
If You Connect It. Protect It.
Maintain a clean machine by keeping the software on your computers, smartphones and tablets up to date. This reduces the risk of 'infection' from ransomware and malware.
Install security software, such as Windows antivirus or macOS firewall protection, to your tech devices, if possible.
Be cautious when using public WiFi networks. Public wireless networks and hotspots, such as those in stores and coffeeshops that don’t require a password, may not be secure. They can leave you vulnerable to identity theft, as your data could be intercepted by cyber criminals lurking in the area. Limit your activity when connected and avoid logging into key accounts, such as email and bank accounts, or entering personal information (e.g., credit card numbers).
Share with Care
Think before you post. Always think about the information a post contains on social platforms such as, Twitter, Instagram, Discord and more, and the consequences it might have for you or others. Never share personal or financial information online and try to avoid posting personal details to prevent cyber criminals from learning important information about you that they could use to answer security questions (e.g., name of high school, hometown, etc.) on your accounts.
Be mindful when sharing files. When using file storage applications, such as Microsoft Teams, keep in mind the default sharing settings for files. For example, when creating a public team, everything stored in the team’s files tab is viewable and accessible by anyone in the organization. Please do not store or share confidential/sensitive information with a public team. Instead, create a private team or use the email encryption feature in your Outlook account.
Interested in learning more tips?
Next week, we will be sending out training from our Security Education Platform that can help you improve your cyber security awareness. The training is optional, but we encourage you to take advantage of it to help you continue to #BeCyberSmart.
Follow us on our social media accounts below and view the digital signage across campus for more Cybersecurity Awareness Month content to help you do your part. #BeCyberSmart
We’re looking forward to a great Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and we hope you are too!
Questions?
Please contact the Help Desk via live chat or submit a request for help at tuhelp.temple.edu, or call 215-204-8000.
Want to learn more about a specific tech topic? Have suggestions or feedback? Help us make Tech Bits better by sending us your ideas at templetech@temple.edu.
