ITS Blog

Learn how to be CYBERSECURE by completing the required KNOWBE4 Cyber Training, BACKUP your work and update your Tech “STUFF” by using this Top Ten List.

Learn how to be CYBERSECURE by completing the required KNOWBE4 Cyber Training, BACKUP your work and update your Tech “STUFF” by using this Top Ten List.


The KnowBe4 training educates users on how to recognize and avoid potential threats and phishing attempts. It teaches users new methods of protecting your personal and organizational data. Students, faculty, and staff can take the training now via the KnowBe4 link from the MyBinghamton Portal. The training will be available through November.

After you complete your training, it’s time to do our

TOP TEN LIST of things to do RIGHT NOW!


  1. Use Google 2-Step and 2FA to strengthen your security. Looking for Google 2-Step for travelers?


Two-factor authentication is an extra security measure that requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a system. To use 2FA, you need the following two things:


  • Something you know (i.e. a PIN number or a password)

  • Something you have (i.e. an ATM card, a one-time passcode (OTP), fingerprint, etc.).


So, 2-Step Verification is that extra security measure to keep scammers/hackers out of your accounts, even if they have your password.


  1. BACKUP your work & clean up any old/unwanted files to free up disk space and keep a tidy computer. 


Don't just store your important data and files on your local drive. If anything happens to it via a virus or hacker, there may be no turning back or saving your files. Backups are usually the only means for recovery. So it’s so important to make sure you are backing up your work and information on a regular basis. Also, try deleting unwanted files to keep your computer clean & fast. Save on the cloud, Google drive, or on an external hard drive or even email it to yourself.

 

  1. Run your Antivirus/Malware to check for viruses.
    Viruses and malware don’t just infect computers via phishy emails or varied websites; they can also be introduced through USB drives, web links and instant messaging. USE ANTI-VIRUS & ANTI-MALWARE SOFTWARE. 


  1. Run Mac Utilities or Windows Disk Management to check for any repair

    Mac OS and Windows contain plenty of resources to find and repair your system errors; run and utilize them accordingly to fix your computer.


  1. Check your Wi-Fi to see that it’s working properly. Use VPN while using public networks to ensure safety

Avoid public Wi-fi’s, especially if doing any bank transaction or online purchase. Sometimes public Wi-fi can be vulnerable to your cyber-security. Make sure to protect yourself using a VPN if you are using a public network. Or better yet wait till you get home.


  1. Need help with game devices (information page) or ethernet on campus? Check your ResCon or go to binghamton.edu/ITS.
    All devices that are connected via mydevicesbing will be purged at the end of major semesters. The MyDevices Portal can also be accessed via MyBinghamton under Campus Life > Online Resources.


  1. Don’t be click happy. A lot of scams, including the dreaded employment scam, are currently going around.

HERE’S A TIP! Avoidance is the best policy against phishing scams. Get wise to phishing. Phishing scams (see examples) can happen on a variety of platforms (texts, emails, phone calls, etc). Stay up to date by knowing what to look for here: https://binghamton.edu/its/phishing.


  1. Change your password often, and/or use a password manager to avoid hacks.

      

Use complicated passwords – make them long and difficult to figure out. They should contain combinations of letters, numbers and special characters. Use a password manager; that way you can easily and safely use a unique password for each account.



  1. Check out our ITS Tech Checklist which is chock full of helpful tech-related tips for your convenience.

This list is a helpful reminder about all things technical. Review this tech checklist to see if you missed something or learn something new that may benefit you. 


  1. Update your software, apps, and also the plugins on your phone, tablet or computer.


ITS recommends installing software and app updates on all devices regularly. Outdated operating systems are a target for cyberattacks due to their vulnerabilities. Every new software update has multiple bug fixes, security updates and patches to improve cybersecurity significantly, thereby making the devices less vulnerable to attacks.


Scrutinize your plugins & extensions carefully. If you no longer need a plugin, remove it from your browser via your browser's plugin preferences.


BINGHAMTON INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES thanks you for reviewing this important information, and doing your KNOWBE4 training so you stay up to date with your cybersecurity. A happy device makes for a happy user experience. 


QUESTIONS? Contact the HELP DESK: helpdesk@binghamton.edu.