There are many tips when it comes to safe computing practices. Check out these top tips that UTSC Information & Instructional Technology Services (IITS) staff put into practice for themselves:
- We keep our computer and mobile device software up to date paying special attention to the Operating System and commonly used apps such as web browsers.
- We use long unique passwords that are individual to each service and not shared with others. As an example, your email password shouldn’t be the same as your banking password.
- We take time to review emails and are suspicious of unexpected links and attachments. Some good examples of these “Phishing emails” are posted on the University’s Phish Bowl page.
- We are careful when opening or sharing website links with others. Some malicious links could have hidden malware set to automatically install on your computer without your knowledge.
- We use UTORvpn when on free and unsecured network connections to encrypt our communication.
- We are enrolled in Multi-factor Authentication (UTORMFA) where it’s offered and only click on the “Approve” prompt when we’re logging into a service.
- We use the share function in M365 instead of emailing attachments.
- We lock our screen when we step away or put down our phone to keep prying eyes away.
- We use the built-in antivirus software on our machines making sure to follow any prompts or warning messages.
- We backup all our work files and folders.
- We use the Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA) Canadian Shield which is a free and protective DNS service.
- We encourage our faculty and staff to always contact IITS before disposing their office computers and copiers to make sure data is properly disposed before heading down to the e-waste bin.
For even more tips, visit the University’s Information Security website and learn more.