1. Keep seperate backups of your data (often this is provided by IT, but it's important!) Also, it's vital to make sure that sensitive data is not backed up in an insecure place (such as SSNs getting stored on a desktop)
2. Make sure that your operating system and applications are current and patched. Unpatched operating systems and applications are a major cause of electronic data theft and other security incidents.
3. Make sure you have up-to-date and running antivirus/anti-malware software (This is provided by IT for both work and home use, but it's always important to make sure the software is working and up to date)
Also, check out this site from Sophos that details their thoughts on how to protect yourself from computer threats.
Keeping seperate backups of your data:
For personal documents there are several options. The easiest options are to either write the data to a CD/DVD or create a gmail account and email yourself your data. It is important to do this regularly and not "put it off until tomorrow". Security incidents and hardware failure can happen at any time.
For College-related data. make sure it is stored on a server that is regularly backed up (such as Dixie or Drayton). Do NOT store information such as Social Security Numbers or other sensitive information on desktops, CDs or an extra email account.
Making sure that your operating system and applications are current and patched:
College computers should already be configured to receive updates. Please check occasionally just to be sure by the appropriate method. It is vital to also check your home machine if you own one.
For Microsoft operating systems, go here
For Apple/Macintosh operating systems, go here
For other operating systems and all applications, follow instructions from the vendor/owner.
Making sure you have up-to-date and running antivirus/anti-malware software:
Check out the Malware/Antivirus page
Information Security
