With most UWindsor faculty, staff, and students now working from off-campus locations, Information Technology Services recommends the following pointers for keeping your personal information, University data, and all devices safe:
#1 – Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection
A VPN provides secure remote access and secure data transmission between devices that are not connected to the University’s campus networks and systems.
#2 – Patch and reboot regularly
Computer programs are not perfect, and they contain errors (bugs) that can provide a means for a hacker to gain access to your device or data. These bugs are corrected by software updates, patches and fixes. Generally, all you need to do is reboot your device and it will update as it restarts.
#3 – Be extra vigilant of emails and texts about COVID-19 or government shutdowns.
Remember not everyone on the Internet has good intentions. It is important to stay aware, slow down, and forward any unusual electronic communications to IT Services Spam Team (spam@uwindsor.ca), so it can be verified.
#4 – Get real anti-virus
It is important that you run always-on, full-featured anti-virus software from a reputable vendor.
#5 – Make sure family and friends understand they cannot use your work devices
To help prevent work information being lost or your computer getting infected, ensure your children, other family members, and guests do not use your work devices. Also, be very careful of what they do on a home machine you are using for work.
For more complete information, visit IT Services’ 5 Cyber Security Tips for Working Remotely. For any other questions, contact the IT Service Desk at 519-253-3000, ext. 4440, or www.uwindsor.ca/itshelp.
