Computer Security for On and Off Campus

Why Computer Security is important

Computers and the Internet can provide many benefits. One big downside is that computers and laptops can easily become targets for intruders. They may want to steal your personal information, use your computer to attack other systems, or cause damage to your system. There are several ways you can ensure that you and your computer are protected. There is no one security method or technological solution to protect your system. Don't make it easy for hackers, protect yourself and your computer. If your computer or laptop becomes infected, the ITS department may have to take steps to prevent it from being able to access our network in order to protect other systems. The following web pages are just some ways you can protect your computer:

• Keep your system up to date with Patches and Security Packs
  
  
• What to do if you have been blocked or 'Can't Access the Internet?' (PDF)
  
  
• Protect your Personal Information
  
  
• Use a Firewall and Antivirus Software
  
  
• Watch out for Spyware and Adware
  
  
• Use a Strong Password/Password Security
  
  
• Make sure you Backup your Important Files

In addition to our web pages, there are a number of sites on the Internet that provide detailed information on Computer and Internet Security:

• Public Safety Canada

  http://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/index-eng.aspx

• Stay Safe Online, the U.S. National Cyber Security Alliance

  http://www.staysafeonline.org/

• Microsoft® Security at Home

  http://www.microsoft.com/protect/default.aspx

• US-CERT, the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team

  http://www.us-cert.gov/

• Wikipedia's entry for Computer Security

  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_security