You are a target. You have information that an attacker wants. Protect yourself, both in your personal life and professional, by employing simple security best practices. Check out tips and advice written by Cybersecurity in the guidance documents below.
Actionable Steps
By practicing a few easy steps, you can protect against a large number of opportunistic attacks. It's so much easier be proactive, than it is to be a victim and recover from an attack.
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Work Area
Securely store papers and portable devices when you walk away.
Close/lock doors to areas not meant for public access.
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Computer
Use a screen saver lockout.
Install and maintain anti-virus/anti-malware.
Set up automatic updates on software and operating systems.
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Data
Backup data and store in a separate location.
Don’t reuse passwords across multiple platforms.
Encrypt sensitive data wherever it is stored.
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Email
Hover over links and verify attachments.
Don’t share sensitive info via email (e.g., passwords).
Report phishing via the Outlook "Report Message" button.
When using a VUIT issued and managed computer, all of the listed technical controls are already implemented. Users are still responsible for process related controls.
Not sure how to start?
Get in touch if you don’t know where to begin, you can’t find the guidance needed on the website, or if you just want to learn more. The Office of Cybersecurity has subject matter expertise and is here for Vanderbilt community to discuss security questions or concerns.