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• Be sure to install and update anti-virus software.
• Update operating system and applications regularly by patching.
• Back up files on your computer either to an external drive or to the cloud.
• Only use flash drives that you know has a trusted source; e.g. buying one at Burdell’s or B&N @ GT.
• Connect to GT VPN when you’re on a public network or one you don’t trust. Be wary of 3rd party VPN applications.
• Disable automatic connections to unknown wireless networks and turn off Bluetooth when not in use.
• Remove old saved wireless network connections.

• Georgia Tech email is housed on Office 365. Your campus email account should be used to communicate between yourself and other Georgia Tech users on campus.
• We recommend other ways to send sensitive information instead of direct email. For example, share links to where you’re storing your data in the cloud instead of sending sensitive data in attachments.
• Keep a look out for Phishing attempts
  • Be sure to check the message details when you receive emails.
  • Look for typos in a message from a sender that appears official.
  • Avoid opening attachments if they seem suspicious.
  • Mouse over hyperlinks to make sure the destination address matches the text.
  • If anything asks you for a login and everything else seems okay, try going to the official site via a web browser instead and confirm what’s being asked.
  • If you receive a message which you suspect may be a phishing attack, please forward the message as an attachment to: phishing@gatech.edu

Important links

• Report Phishing
• Georgia Tech Protected Data Practices

• Assign at least a 6-digit pin or fingerprint authentication to unlock your phone.
• Enable services to locate lost or stolen devices.
• Limit the information that apps are allowed to access; e.g. location, address book.
• Disable automatic connections to unknown wireless networks and remove old wireless network connections.
• Turn off Bluetooth if you don’t need to use it.

• When in doubt, don’t visit a web page of which you are unsure if it is legitimate or safe.
• If you’re asked to enter sensitive personal information or payment information, confirm you are on the correct webpage and it is not a spoofed website. Be especially vigilant if it was a link in an email or electronic message.
• Review browser security settings and consider using a popup blocker extension.

• Use a password manager application so that you will only have to remember one password and can have a unique complex long password for every website. Also, consider randomizing your passwords and using the password manager to enter your passwords on webpages.
• Never use the same password on multiple sites. A password manager will help you achieve this securely.
• Avoid passwords based on a dictionary word or something about you. A password manager will help you achieve this securely.
• Do not reveal something in a password hint that tells someone else your password; e.g. “Mom’s name”. A password manager will help you achieve this securely.
• Be sure to activate Multi-Factor Authentication on any site that has it available.

Links

• Tips to Secure Your Password
• Georgia Tech Password Policy

• As a rule of thumb, assume anything you post could be seen by the world.
• Do not post your whereabouts.
• Be sure to look at your profile without logging in to see what others would see.
• Adjust your privacy settings to align with what you’re most comfortable with sharing.
• Consider how a post will affect yourself and others before posting.

• When traveling, be sure to take extra precautions with your electronic devices and data; e.g. never leave your device unattended.
• Consider using GT VPN on networks you don’t trust.
• Avoid storing sensitive information directly on your devices.
• Consider changing the passwords you used during your trip when you return.