October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, making it a good time for everyone to review best practices for staying safe online. Information Technology Services recommends everyone follow these simple every-day steps to vastly improve cybersecurity.
Think Before You Click
Remember what you learned about not accepting candy from strangers? Apply that to the online world as well. Do not click links in emails, text messages, chat boxes, etc., from people you do not know, and be suspicious of links sent from those you know as well. If you encounter suspicious messages or attachments, please forward them to the Information Technology Services Security Team by emailing its-sec@nebraska.edu or by clicking on the REPORT PHISH button in your Outlook client.
Protect your Personal Information
Personal information is any information that can be used to identify you or your accounts. Examples include your name, address, phone number, usernames and passwords, pictures, birthday and social security number. Don’t post or share this information with others.
Don’t Hesitate to Update
Having the latest security software, web browser and operating system on devices is one of the best defenses against online threats. When the computer or device says it’s time to update the software, don’t click postpone. Update.
Remember to Practice Cybersecurity While at Home
With many of us teaching, working and learning from home, it’s more important than ever before to remain vigilant even when we’re away from campus. More and more of our home devices – including thermostats, door locks, coffee machines and smoke alarms – are now connected to the Internet. While these advances in technology are innovative and intriguing, they also pose a new set of security risks. Review the 5 simple steps you can take to protect your digital home.
Use Best Practices on Zoom
To maximize the security of all users and minimize the possibility for disruption during Zoom meetings, do not post public links to meetings, forward meeting invites or share meeting IDs beyond the intended audience. Information Technology Services also encourage users to review their current Zoom profile settings to make use of Waiting Rooms and Passcodes. Learn more about Zoom best practices on the Nebraska Information Technology Services website.
Learn more about cybersecurity by participating in upcoming Information Technology Services events:
- Oct. 22, Noon, Brown Bag Virtual Event: “Phishing, Vishing, Smishing: How Can I Protect my Business?”
- Oct. 26, 11 a.m., Cybersecurity Interest Group virtual meeting: Ransomware Demo
- Oct. 29, 11:30 a.m., Virtual Cybersecurity Escape Room Challenge
