Computer Security Tips

Update your computer:

It is important that you regularly patch and update your computer for security vulnerabilities and anti-virus updates. To receive the latest patches, set your computer to automatically update or request your computer to be managed by IT Support Services by contacting x2020.

Use strong passwords:

Good passwords are critical to system security. Use passwords which include lower case and upper case letters, numbers and special characters. See the Information Resources Security Operations Manual for more information: http://infosecurity.utpa.edu

Install anti-malware:

Viruses are a significant threat to all computer users. The McAfee Anti-virus program is available to all faculty and staff for use at UTPA. For home use, Microsoft Forefront Client Security is available for faculty, staff and students at no cost. You may download both Anti-virus solutions at http://download.utpa.edu.

Secure your computer:

Never leave your computer unattended and logged on. Computers should be physically safeguarded as well. Lock your door, cabinets and secure laptops with security locks.

Exercise prudent use of email and the Internet:

Email is not private. Think carefully about what you say and how you say it. Do not respond to messages seeking confidential data from you such as account numbers or passwords. Be careful about websites you visit. Some may place harmful programs without you noticing it.

Protect confidential data:

Never send confidential information (social security, credit cards, etc.) through email or over the Internet unless is encrypted. Storing sensitive data on portable devices must be approved before storage. If approval is given the portable device must be encrypted. Whole drive encryption is also available to secure portable computers that contain confidential data.

Backup your data:

It is not uncommon to accidentally delete an important file. A backup file can save the day.