CIO'S MESSAGE - October 1, 2018

National Cyber Security Awareness: Good Computer Security Habits

Dear Colleagues,

We’re kicking off National Cyber Security Awareness Month with some tips for increasing information security:

• Update your computer software – Make sure you are using the latest Windows or Mac operating system. Please check with your campus technical coordinator first before installing any new software on your campus-issued computer.
• Install an anti-virus (anti-malware) software program – Please check with your assigned campus technical coordinator to make sure an anti-malware program is working as intended.
• Backup your critical files – Backing up your data and research papers on a regular basis is one of the most important security measures. Especially with ransomware, you need to make sure that you have a backup copy of your data just in case your computer is infected with malware. Using campus-provided file shares or OneDrive is advised.
• Use the Internet safely – Make sure you use an up-to-date Web browser.
• Protect your passwords – Don’t share your BeachID password or any other password! Please remember that your BeachID (employee ID number together with your password) gives you primary access to campus information systems (computer, email, Wi-Fi, etc.) that may access confidential information.
• Lock your computer – Remember to always lock your computer or lock your computer screen before leaving it unattended.

Aysu Spruill
Information Security Officer

Min Yao, Ph.D.
Vice President and Chief Information Officer