10 Tips to Stay Secure

 

  1. Take Charge of Your Computer – Installing Take Charge on your computer helps to secure your computer against viruses, malicious programs, and other security threats
  2. Install OS Updates – As part of the Take Charge program, Operating System (OS) updates are configured to download to your computer.  Make sure that you install these updates when prompted so that your OS remains up to date.
  3. Run SpyBot and AdAware Frequently – These two programs (which are installed as part of the Take Charge) help find and remove spyware and adware from your computer.  Run these frequently as spyware and adware can, unbeknownst to you, be installed on your computer
  4. Run the Sensitive Number Finder – The Sensitive Number Finder can help you find Social Security Numbers and/or Credit Card numbers that may be stored on your computer or your network file space.
  5. Strong Passwords – Every 180 days you are required to change your NetID password and use strong password rules.  You should use strong passwords for all passwords (e.g. other ND services that are not accesses through NetID and password, online banking, etc.)
  6. Keep Passwords a Secret – Do not write your password down in an obvious place, on a note stuck to your computer monitor, for example. Also, do not share your personal password with others.
  7. Physical Security – Lock your office door when you are away; do not leave your laptop or PDA unattended.
  8. On Your Screen -- Be aware of what is visible to others from your computer screen.
  9. Paper Trail – Keep track of paper copies of sensitive data - do not leave them behind at meetings or in the copy machine.
  10. Encrypt Sensitive Information – Encryption helps protect your sensitive information from prying eyes.