IT Security

Faculty and Staff

Be Aware

Every faculty and staff member has an obligation to do their part

Virginia Tech’s IT systems allow members of the faculty and staff to work productively.  Through the use of its computers and networks, faculty and staff gain access to the information and applications needed to carry out the work of the university. Much of the information is sensitive in nature and great care should be used when handling sensitive data.  Every faculty and staff member has an obligation to do their part in protecting the sensitive information and IT systems of Virginia Tech.


image of server

Awareness is the best defense

Faculty and staff need to maintain an awareness of cyber security issues, follow Virginia Tech IT polices, and take special care in handling sensitive information. Information Technology security is not a onetime occurrence. It is an ongoing process and faculty and staff members can help by keeping their operating systems and firewalls up to date. Virginia Tech gives access to antivirus software to its staff and faulty.

 

 

Tips

  • Use strong passwords
  • Use antivirus software
  • Use care when opening attachments
  • Be careful clicking unsolicited links
  • Never reply to any message of email that asks for your PID, password, account information, or anything else that would be considered sensitive
  • Never share your password with anyone
  • Stay current on awareness issues and take opportunities to receive security training

 

More Information

VT Password Tips - useful tips to create strong passwords

US- Cert password Tips useful tips to create strong passwords

Risk to IT Sytems- learn about the risk associated with IT sytems

Encryption help - useful tools to keep sensitive data secure

Cyber Awareness - More information to raise awareness about cyber security

Identity Theft prevention tips

Antivirus software - is provided to all students, faculty, and staff of Virginia Tech

Sensitive Data - learn what to look for

How to Automatic Update Windows

How to Automatic Update Macs

Linux Help Page

How to enable or disable the firewall in Windows Xp

How to enable or disable the firewall in Mac O.S