InfoSec: Securing devices

Securing your devices such as your desktop, laptop, smartphone, or tablet is a proactive step in protecting DePauw’s campus network.  We recommend taking these steps:

Install antivirus software

Windows provides Windows Defender free of charge.

Free versions of additional antivirus and malware tools are available at:

  • Malwarebytes – Malware detection and removal tool available as a free download for individual use
  • SUPERAntiSpyWare – Spyware detection tool available as a free download for individual use

Reduce virus risk

Viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and other such malware, short for malicious programs, can damage or disable your computer, damage information on your computer, slow down browsing on the Internet, and use your computer to spread itself to your friends, family, co-workers, and the rest of the Web.

Tips for reducing virus risk

  • Keep your software up-to-date
  • Keep your antivirus software up-to-date.
  • Never click on an email link or open an email attachment from a stranger because the link or attachment could be a form of keystroke harvesting or logging that initiates a program that logs (i.e., records) each key you strike on your keyboard.
  • Avoid using file or music sharing programs.
  • Be cautious when using the Internet. Many pop-up windows are actually malware known as “drive-by downloads” that install an unknown or counterfeit executable program, Active X, or Java applet. If you are unsure about whether to download, do not download, and contact the HelpDesk for advice on what to do.

If you suspect that your computer has a virus, contact the HelpDesk at  HelpDesk@depauw.edu  or (765) 658-4294.

Minimize unauthorized access

Whether you walk away from your office or room for a few minutes, you misplace your device, or someone has stolen it, here are some tips to help you out:

  • Use a strong password or passphrase to make it difficult for someone else to use your device. A passphrase is a string of words or other text used to log in to a device that is generally longer than a password making it more secure.
  • Do not share your password with anyone.
  • Do not write your password on a sticky note that you place under your keyboard, in your desk drawer, or anywhere else someone can find it.
  • Enable 2-Step Verification, also known as 2-Factor Authentication, to add an extra layer of security to your Google email account or Box account by signing in with something you know (your password) and something you have such as downloaded codes, a code sent to your phone, security key, etc.).
  • Never leave your laptop, smartphone, etc. unattended even for a few short minutes.
  • Set your screen to lock automatically after it is inactive for a set amount of time.
  • Only save documents with personally identifiable information (PII) in secure locations.
  • Do not automatically save passwords even though it is convenient to you. If your device is stolen, the thief will be very happy with how convenient you made it for them to easily guess your password.
  • Advanced users may be interested in taking a look at SourceForge’s KeePass or AgileBits 1Password . Please feel free to contact InfoSec@depauw.edu with your feedback on password managers as we are always interested in learning more about your experience.

Enable firewalls

When you are browsing the Internet, your computer is constantly being probed for vulnerabilities. Enabling a firewall on your computer will make it more secure.

Updated: 7/24/2024

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