Cyber hygiene is the practice and steps K-Staters can follow to improve our online security and maintain the health of our IT systems.
Cyber hygiene is often compared to personal hygiene. Just as you follow daily personal hygiene practices to stay healthy, adopting a daily cyber hygiene routine is crucial for safeguarding the health of K-State’s network and ensuring the safety and security of our data. By making these habits a part of your daily routine, they will become second nature.
Be aware of phishing scams. Cybercriminals use phishing scams to try to trick you into sharing personal information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, social security numbers and bank account numbers, by sending you fraudulent emails or directing you to a fake website. Learn what a phishing scam looks like. If you suspect that you have been compromised…” use something like “If you suspect you’ve been targeted or fallen victim to a phishing scam, report the incident immediately to abuse@ksu.edu.
Create strong passwords. Complex passwords can prevent many malicious activities and protect K-State’s network. Consider using passphrases or a reputable password manager to create and store complex passwords securely. Learn about K-State’s eID password requirements.
Never share your eID password. It is your responsibility to keep your eID password secure and private.
Only use your eID password with K-State systems. Using your K-State eID password for a website or service outside of K-State will lower the security of that password on both systems. If the same password is used for many devices and applications, only the weakest link needs compromising.
Set a password-protected screensaver. Enabling a password-protected screensaver that activates after a short period of inactivity will help prevent unauthorized access to your computer when it’s unattended.
Require a password upon your computer waking up. Requiring a password on your computer after it wakes from sleep mode will help prevent anyone from accessing it upon waking. By default, this feature is enabled on Windows computers. Learn more about requiring a password after waking your Mac.
Use two-factor authentication. K-State uses Duo two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security to your account and protect your personal information. Even if someone knows your password, Duo prevents them from accessing your account.
Install antivirus protection. Antivirus software is your first line of defense. It detects, blocks and removes viruses. It also warns about dangerous websites and links. All university-maintained computers have antivirus software installed and maintained by computers. Additionally, all personal computers connecting to the K-State Network must have antivirus software installed. See the K-State-approved list of antivirus software.
Enable automatic software updates. Software updates provide new and improved functionality while addressing bugs and crashes. Keeping software updated is vital to ensure your computer runs safely and securely. Turn on automatic software updates for your devices to always have the newest security features. Learn more: Windows or Mac.
Don’t leave your devices unattended in public areas. In just a few seconds, thieves can steal your computer and confidential information or install viruses or other malicious software. Always watch your laptop, smartphone or tablet when in public places.
Never use an unknown USB flash drive. Cybercriminals are using USB flash drives to gain access to your computer. Do not use free USB flash drives because they may be infected. An infected drive could lock your computer, corrupt your data, add malware to K-State’s network or steal your personal information. Do not borrow a drive from a friend; unbeknownst to your friend, the drive may be infected.
Use a standard user account for daily use. This helps minimize the impact of malware attacks. Avoid using an account with administrative privileges for everyday tasks. Reserve administrator accounts for when you need maximum control over your computer.
Disable Autoplay. Autoplay allows programs to run automatically when a CD or USB flash drive is inserted into a PC, and cybercriminals often exploit this feature to infect devices. Disabling Autoplay helps to reduce the vulnerability of your device to such attacks.
