Staysafeonline.org explains that "2020 saw a major disruption in the way many work, learn, and socialize online. Our homes are more connected than ever. Our businesses are more connected than ever. With more people now working from home, these two internet-connected environments are colliding on a scale we’ve never seen before, introducing a whole new set of potential vulnerabilities that users must be conscious of. Week 2 of Cybersecurity Awareness Month will focus on steps users and organizations can take to protect internet-connected devices for both personal and professional use."
How cybersecure are you?
If you are already employing best practices - thank you! We would love to hear more about it. You are welcome to use the My Cybersecurity Form in Actions to share with WPI Information Security. Not sure whether you are taking the right steps? Try the Cybersecurity Quizzes in Actions from the Federal Trade Commission and check out tips below.
Cybersecurity at WPI
Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)
Numerous apps in use at WPI employee MFA to ensure access to WPI data is secure. Learn more in the Related Article, Multi-Factor Authentication.
Secure your computer
Enable a firewall, perform operating system updates regularly, and frequently san your device with anti-malware software. Details can be found in the Related Article, Securing Your Computer.
Don't leave devices unattended
While it can be easy to assume your device is safe if you step away, please consider:
- A laptop is stolen every 53 seconds
- 70 million smartphones are list each year, with only 7% recovered
- 17% of security breaches in higher education occur via portable devices
Safer options are to take your device with you, leave it with someone you know, or use a laptop cable to secure it to a solid, stationary object (not a chair or table leg!).
Equipped for Secure Remote Work
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
WPI's VPN allows secure access to on-campus systems, as well as protecting against insecure network connections such as unencrypted public WiFi. When using the WPI VPN, All traffic is routed through the WPI network via a secure encrypted tunnel. If you haven't yet installed GlobalProtect VPN, it's available under Software.
For some roles at WPI, VPN is combined with MFA to further increase security. Learn more in the Related Article, Protecting WPI's Virtual Private Network with Multi-Factor Authentication.
Are You Using a Secure Remote Network?
Public wifi is exactly that - public! Connecting to the network at your favorite coffee shop has no barriers in place to protect WPI data, proprietary work, or confidential information. Using a personal hot spot on your phone that others are not allowed to access is more secure. When working from home, guidelines for Securing Your Home Network are in Related Articles.
Spread the Word About Cybersecurity
Scammers know just how to get to people. Spread the word about best practices to help others stay safe online. The Federal Trade Commission supports sharing what you know to stop scams; for details visit Pass it on in Actions. WPI Information Security offers tips for Protecting Children Online in Related Articles.