Mobile Safety for Faculty & Staff
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If you see something, say something. Don't hesitate to reach out to the IT department for assistance.
Safely Navigating Mobile Device Use:
Mobile devices are indispensable tools for staying connected, accessing information, and enhancing productivity. Whether it's checking emails, collaborating on projects, or accessing course materials, our reliance on mobile devices continues to grow. However, with this convenience comes the responsibility of ensuring the security and privacy of our personal and professional information. As faculty and staff of Grand Valley State University, it's essential to adopt safe practices when using mobile devices to protect sensitive data and maintain the integrity of our work. Below are some tips to help you navigate the digital landscape securely.
Mobile Safety Tips:
1. Update Regularly
Keep your mobile operating system, apps, and antivirus software up to date. Regular updates often include security patches that address vulnerabilities and protect against emerging threats.
2. Enable Passcodes or Biometrics
Set up strong passcodes or utilize biometric authentication methods such as fingerprint or facial recognition to secure access to your device. Avoid using easily guessable passcodes like "1234" or your birthdate. We also strongly recommend enabling multi-factor authentication for all of your applications that support it, including social media, shopping sites and email.
3. Use Secure Connections
When connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, be cautious of potential security risks. Whenever possible, use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your data from prying eyes.
4. Beware of Phishing
Be vigilant against phishing attempts, especially via email or text messages. Exercise caution when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources, as they may contain malware or lead to fraudulent websites.
5. Implement Remote Wiping
Enable remote wiping functionality on your device in case it gets lost or stolen. This feature allows you to remotely erase all data from your device to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.
6. Encrypt Data
Encrypt the data stored on your mobile device to add an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access. Most modern devices offer built-in encryption features that can be easily enabled in the settings.
7. Review App Permissions
Regularly review the permissions granted to apps on your device and revoke access to any unnecessary or suspicious permissions. Limiting app permissions helps minimize the risk of data exposure and unauthorized access.
8. Backup Data Regularly
Regularly backup your important data to a secure cloud storage service or external hard drive. In the event of a device loss or malfunction, having backups ensures that you can easily recover your data without any loss.
9. Educate Yourself
Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices for mobile device security. Additional information on CyberSafety topics can be found here: https://www.gvsu.edu/cybersafety/
10. Report Security Incidents
If you suspect that your device has been compromised or if you encounter any security incidents, report them immediately to the appropriate IT support team at Grand Valley State University. Prompt action can help mitigate potential risks and protect other users.
By following these guidelines, you can help safeguard your mobile devices and the valuable information they contain. Good cybersecurity not only protects your personal data but also contributes to the overall security posture of our university community. Stay safe and secure in the digital world!
If you have any questions or concerns regarding mobile device security, please don't hesitate to reach out to the IT department for assistance.