IT Security tips

Whether using a computer on campus or at home, you should always take care to ensure that your computer, its software and your files are kept safe from viruses and other attacks.

Attacks can come from:

• files downloaded from the Internet or received via email
• leaving your computer unattended so that others can access your files
• files loaded from a borrowed disk or USB storage device

To protect your home computer or laptop:

• Use up-to-date anti-virus software
• Ensure automatic updates are enabled
• Enable your system’s firewall

Campus computers for students (CSCE) will have the above as a part of their standard configuration. However there are other things you must be aware of in order to ensure you and your files are protected on campus and at home:

• Do not give anyone else your password or leave your computer unattended while still logged on.
• Treat unexpected emails with suspicion, particularly if they contain web links or an attachment. This applies regardless of who the sender appears to be as virtually all such emails have counterfeit sender details. Never disclose personal or sensitive information in response to an unsolicited email.
• The use of P2P applications on campus is prohibited. Copyright infringements run the risk of legal action against you and the University as a whole. Furthermore many P2P downloads contain viruses.

Further information  

http://www.gla.ac.uk/services/it/informationsecurity/