Whether you are setting up a new computer or just want to tighten security on your old one, follow these 10 security tips to strengthen your computer's defences and to protect yourself!
1) Set Strong Passwords – Use a mixture of numbers and upper and lower case letters. Don’t repeat them. Avoid real words and names. Click “password” in PAWS to check your password’s strength. More on choosing your password.
2) Use Multiple Passwords & Keep Them Confidential – Don’t use the same password for everything. Above all, use your U of S password for only your U of S account. Never share it. More on password security and more on protecting your accounts and passwords.
3) Protect Your Devices – Keep your computers and mobile devices physically safe and password-protected. If your device has a “find” setting or app, turn it on to help you locate it if it goes missing.
4) Apply Security Updates and Patches – Keep your operating system and applications up to date by regularly installing updates and patches. More on applying security updates and patches.
5) Use Anti-virus Software – Download the U of S-supplied anti-virus software from the ICT website for your laptop or desktop computer. Install anti-virus software on your tablet or smartphone. More on using anti-virus software.
6) Use Email Safely – Think before you click on links or open attachments. If in doubt, check with the ICT Help Desk. More on using email safely.
7) Browse the Internet Safely – Keep your browser up to date with high security settings. Be wary of free software. Watch where you go and, always, think before you click. Think about how you’re connecting to the internet and act accordingly: are you on a secure network or on free wireless supplied anonymously? More on browsing the Internet safely,
8) Back up and Protect Your Data – Back up your data regularly. If you use a cloud storage services such as DropBox, iCloud or Amazon, encrypt your data before saving to the cloud. Think about where your data is going. More on backing up and protecting your data.
9) Use Anti-spyware Software – Protect yourself from spyware that can gather personal information without your knowledge. Some computer systems offer built-in anti-spyware software – turn it on. More on using anti-spyware.
10) Use a Software Firewall – The U of S provides network-level firewall protection but be sure to use any built-in firewall software available for your computer and mobile devices. Set security levels high. More on using a software firewall.
