Highlights
The theme for this week is “Be Cybersmart”, as we embrace the “new normal” meaning that we are actively working in hybrid environments where we work from home, work on campus or work in other remote locations it is increasingly more important to be cybersmart. Our lives have become increasingly dependent on technology, virtually all personal and business data is kept on internet-connected platforms, which can become a gold mine for bad actors and anyone interested in stealing data from URI.
This first full week of Cybersecurity Awareness Month will highlight best security practices and focus on general cyber hygiene to keep your information safe. We encourage you to Own your role in cybersecurity because we feel that it is everyone’s responsibility for security at home and on campus. Information Technology Services advocates that you start with the basics; Creating strong passwords and using multi-factor authentication (MFA), backing up your data, and updating your software are great places to start. These are just a few tips to start small and is a great way to Do Your Part #BeCyberSmart!
As we integrate technology more and more into our personal lives and our professional campus activities we are more connected than ever, being “cyber smart” is of the utmost importance. Recently we have seen several media news stories regarding CYBERATTACKS that have left institutions, corporate organizations, government agencies and utility companies helpless with complete shutdowns or data breaches that lead to their customers experiencing identity theft. This year has already seen more than a fair share of attacks and breaches, including the SolarWinds and Kaseya breaches as well as high-profile attacks on the Colonial Pipeline and other critical infrastructure. Furthermore, as has been underlined by these recent breaches, cyber attacks are becoming more sophisticated with more evolved bad actors cropping up each day. The Office of Information Technology Services advocates that you take the following steps to mitigate risks and stay one step ahead of malefactors.
Here are a few quick tips:
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds that necessary second check to verify your identity when logging in to one of your accounts. By requiring multiple methods of authentication, your account is further protected from being compromised, even if a bad actor hijacks your password. In this way, MFAs make it more difficult for password cracking tools to enable attackers to break into accounts.
Perform System Software Updates
When a device prompts that it’s time to update the software, it may be tempting to simply click postpone, and ignore the message. However, having the latest security software, web browser, and operating system on devices is one of the best defenses against online threats. So, don’t wait – update.
Do your research and know who you are doing business with
Common sense is a crucial part of maintaining good online hygiene, and an intuitive step to stay safe online is to do some research before downloading anything new you are downloading to your device, such as apps. Before downloading any new learning app on your device, make sure that it’s a by checking who created the app, what the user reviews say, and if there are any articles published online about the app’s privacy and security features.
Check your security and privacy settings
Be diligent to double check your privacy and security settings, and be aware who can access your documents. This extends from Google docs, to Zoom calls, and beyond. For meetings on Zoom, for example, create passwords so only those invited to the session can attend, and restrict who can share their screen or files with the rest of the attendees.
