The Office of Information Security Services is working to keep your information safe from cyber criminals. With the recent surge in employees nationwide working remotely, the National Cybersecurity Alliance has released a set of tips regarding online security practices to protect individuals and the university from these security risks.

• • Think Before You Click. Cyber criminals are taking advantage of people seeking information on COVID-19. They are distributing malware campaigns that impersonate organizations like WHO, CDC, and other reputable sources by asking you to click on links or download outbreak maps. Slow down. Don’t click. Go directly to a reputable website to access the content.
  • Lock Down Your Login. Create long and unique passphrases for all accounts and use multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. MFA will fortify your online accounts by enabling the strongest authentication tools available, such as biometrics or a unique one-time code sent to your phone or mobile device.
  • Connect to a secure network and use a company-issued Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access any work applications or servers that require it. Home routers should be updated to the most current software and secured with a lengthy, unique passphrase. Employees should not be connecting to public WiFi to access work accounts unless using a VPN.
  • Keep devices with you at all times or stored in a secure location when not in use. Set auto log-out if you walk away from your computer and forget to log out.
  • Limit access to the device you use for work. Only the approved user should use the device (family and friends should not use a work-issued device).
  • Use company-approved/vetted devices and applications to collaborate and complete your tasks. Don’t substitute your preferred tools for ones that have been vetted by the company’s security team.
  • Update your software. Before connecting to your corporate network, be sure that all internet-connected devices ‒including PCs, smartphones and tablets ‒ are running the most current versions of software. Updates include important changes that improve the performance and security of your devices.

For the latest information and resources for remote teaching and working at Ball State, please visit our Keep Teaching and Working website.

If you have further questions about online security for your remote working environment, or need help implementing any of these practices, please submit a request for help to the Technology HelpDesk, or call them at 765-285-1517.