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Cybersecurity

Securing Your Devices and Information

Visit the Federal Trade Commission's Online Privacy and Security site for excellent information concerning online privacy, protecting your devices from hackers and threats, and avoiding common online scams.

Antivirus
Antivirus software should be installed and up-to-date on computer and mobile devices that are connecting to the BSC campus network. 

Windows Security is included with Windows 10 and 11. When no antivirus program is detected, Windows Security is automatically enabled.
Apple's macOS also includes built-in protection as well.

If you prefer a separate antivirus program, which may have more features than the built-in antivirus, there are a number of good options available, both free and paid. 

Please note: The BSC Help Desk is not able to assist with virus removal or provide support on non-BSC owned computers due to potential liability issues such as corrupted files and data loss.

Email Safety
Be cautious of attachments and links in email messages, even if you know the sender. If the sender's account was compromised, their email may be used to send out malicious messages. Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments unless you are certain they are safe.

Phishing emails are malicious emails with the intent of stealing a user's login information. They often state the user needs to click on a link and validate their email address or login information. The links direct to fake login sites, where they steal the user names and passwords of those that log in. Neither BSC nor the NDUS would send an email asking you to click a link and log in on a website to verify information. 
How To Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams | Consumer Advice

Update your operating system and software programs
It is important to keep your operating system and software programs updated on your computers and mobile devices. This improves the reliability, security and performance of your device. Updates often patch security vulnerabilities and flaws.
Understanding Patches and Software Updates | CISA

Connect to a secure network
When possible, connect to secure wireless networks rather than public ones. If you must connect to a public network, avoid logging into sensitive sites, such as your bank account. Do not place orders using your credit card when on public networks. The open nature of public wireless can allow someone to snoop on the traffic that is passing through it. 
Be safer over wireless connections - Microsoft Support

Use strong passwords
Weak passwords are easier to crack. A strong password should contain upper and lower case letters, along with numbers and/or special characters. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. Do not share your passwords with others. Your home router should also be password protected and use encryption.

Social Media
Avoid posting personal information on social media sites. Assume that what you post is permanent - pictures, videos and text you post can be saved by others. Use the privacy tools on social media sites to prevent people you do not know from seeing your information. Be selective about who you accept as friends on social networks. Identity thieves may create fake profiles and send a friend request in order to get information about you.

Back up your data
Always back up your data files (pictures, videos, documents, etc.) on a regular basis to an external drive or cloud-based storage site (such as OneDrive). Events such as a hard drive failure, corruption in Windows, or a virus infection could result in data loss on your computer. If you have a Mac: How to back up your Mac - Apple Support

Be careful downloading software
If you download a software program from the web, be sure you are getting it from the original software vendor's site. Third party sites may bundle adware or other unwanted programs with their downloads.

Keep your popup blocker on
The popup blocker in your browser prevents unwanted sites and ads from coming up. If it is blocking a legitimate site, do not turn off your blocker, instead, add that site as an exception in your popup blocker settings.

Do not save your passwords
Avoid saving your passwords for online sites. You tend to forget your passwords over time if they are saved in your browser or program. More importantly, it also can pose a security risk if others have access to your computer, or if it becomes compromised with malware. You could also consider using a password manager.

Online Shopping
When placing orders online, stick with reputable companies, and opt out of saving your credit card information with the site. The convenience of not having to enter your credit card information each time does not outweigh the risk of the site's databases being breached, and your information stolen. As mentioned before, do not enter credit card information when on public computers or public wireless networks.
Shop Safely This Holiday Season | CISA