Faculty and staff purchasing televisions, light controllers, microscopes and many other kinds of electronic devices intended to connect to the WVU network must submit an IT Purchase Request before making such purchases.
Devices connected to WVU’s wired and wireless networks create multiple possible entry points for cybercriminals who look for weaknesses to exploit in software, increasing the security risks to University systems and data.
Failure to get prior approval could hinder or prevent your ability to connect these devices, which are collectively referred to as the Internet of Things, to the WVU network. Some other examples of IoT devices include but are not limited to: security cameras, point-of-sale devices, appliances, smart light bulbs and thermostat controllers and digital assistants. It is impossible to provide an exhaustive list, as tech industry experts estimate there are tens of billions of IoT devices in use across the world.
WVU has many policies and standards in place to help ensure the secure use of these devices.
If you need guidance on whether your planned purchase requires prior IT approval, please email the ITS software licensing team at software@mail.wvu.edu. It is important to get prior IT approval to ensure the device is compatible with WVU’s network, that it complies with relevant policies and standards, and that a plan to secure the device is developed in collaboration with ITS and your local IT team.
Information Technology Services also encourages WVU employees to protect internet-connected devices in their homes with secure passwords and two-factor authentication. The Federal Trade Commission has detailed recommendations.