Cyber attacks are becoming more sophisticated by the day, but WVU students, faculty and staff can take a few simple steps to #BeCyberSmart and stay one step ahead of criminals. During National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Information Technology Services and the Office of Equity Assurance recommend five ways to stay connected safely.
While no single measure is foolproof, these free and easy tips can help you control and protect your online presence, and exponentially decrease your odds of being hacked. That spares you time, money and aggravation. Consider these measures for all your accounts and electronic devices.
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Use multi-factor authentication. Passwords can be compromised, so prove it’s you with a phone number or email address. Banks, social media and many other online services such as Amazon, Apple and Google support two-step login.
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Use strong passphrases. Long, complex and unique passwords for each personal account can stop hackers. Save all those passwords securely by using a password manager such as LastPass, Keeper, Bitwarden, Dashlane or 1Password.
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Don’t wait, update. Having the latest security software, web browser and operating system helps prevent online threats. Don’t ignore messages to update the software on your phone; do it.
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Do your research. Before downloading a new app, see who created it and what reviewers say. Search for articles about privacy and security features. Avoid apps with excessive permissions, pop-up ads and poor authentication practices.
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Check your settings. Double-check the privacy and security settings on your personal accounts and be aware who can see your information. Add security measures such as password requirements for Zoom calls to protect privacy and prevent Zoom-bombings.
Each week in October, we will offer tips to Defend Your Data.
For real-time outage updates and other important announcements, follow @WVUITServices on Twitter or “like” WVU Information Technology on Facebook.