Keeping UNCG data and user information safe in times of war
In response to Federal, State, and UNC System warnings and mandates about escalating cyber warfare coming out of Eastern Europe, UNCG’s Information Technology Services (ITS) Information Security team is vigilantly securing UNCG’s technology infrastructure against attack.
As a research institution, UNCG’s network is a gateway to a treasure trove of research data and financial resources. While the Information Security team ensures the safety of UNCG data and that of its students, faculty, and staff from the back end, every UNCG user must also participate in protecting the University’s data, networks, and users’ personal information.
Be on your guard for…
Phishing and Social Engineering
Cyber attackers use emails, text messaging, phone calls, and social media to trick you into doing something that allows an attacker to steal your money and/or identity. They are manipulative, often creating a sense of urgency designed to rush you to take an action. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is—especially if it’s coming in an email.
Contact 6-TECH immediately if you get a message that your files have been encrypted and you must pay to get them back.
There is a tremendous amount of false information on the internet designed to confuse us. Do not trust or rely on information from new, unknown, or random social media accounts. Many accounts on sites like LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter were created for the sole purpose of spreading lies. Follow only well-known trusted news sources that verify the authenticity of information before they broadcast it.
Often solicited by cyber-criminals via email or phone calls, many charity scams trick people into donating to fake charities. When you give, make sure you donate to a well-known, trusted charity.
Practice Cyber Self-Defense
Protect yourself at home and at work.
- Do not provide your personal information in any email…ever.
- Be cautious when opening emails, text messages, and social media messages from unknown senders.
- Do not open attachments or click links in messages from unknown senders.
- Report phishing attempts to 6-TECH.
Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication.
- Make sure each of your accounts is protected by a unique, strong password. The longer your password the better.
- Keep passwords simple and secure by using passphrases, a type of password made up of multiple words like “honey-butter-happy”.
- Can’t remember all your passwords? Neither can we. That is why we also recommend using a Password Manager to securely store your passwords.
- Finally, whenever possible, enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
Keep all of your devices up-to-date.
Enabling automatic updates on all your devices ensures known weaknesses are fixed and the latest security features are on your machines. Cyber attackers are constantly looking for new vulnerabilities and these updates help keep hackers from finding them.
Keep 6-TECH in your contacts.
If you need us, call us. We’re here to help you.
If you have questions or need technical assistance, contact 6-TECH at (336) 256-TECH (8324) or [email protected].
