Information Security Corner

Security at Home

The Office of Information Security would like to remind everyone to practice good computer hygiene and to continue to be “Security Aware,” this is especially true during this time of remote work combined with the holiday online shopping season.  Your continued efforts will not only protect UTMB’s computers and network resources, but also your personal devices, home networks and information.

Here are a few ways you can ensure that you are practicing “Security@Home”:

Keep your computer, mobile devices and critical software up-to-date

  • All computers should run the latest operating system they are capable of (Windows 10 or the most recent MacOs or IOS). Microsoft has a free upgrade from Windows 7/8 to Windows 10 and Apple regularly releases updates to its MacOS/iOS.
  • Computer security patches must be installed as soon as they are available. Most computers can be configured to automatically install patches during downtime hours.
  • Anti-virus software must be installed, updated and running on all computers.For Windows computers, ensure that Windows Defender is enabled. (You can validate this by typing “security” into the search box next to the Start button. Click the Windows Security Application and verify that the Virus and Threat Protection icon has a green check). For MacOS/IOS, consider running ClamXAV.

Practice online (Internet or remote connection) security

  • Unless there is a need to have direct access to UTMB’s internal network, all users are encouraged to use the Citrix storefront (at https://mycitrix.utmb.edu) for their remote access/telecommuting needs. Devices running older versions of Windows, MacOS or iOS absolutely should use the Citrix storefront to access UTMB resources.
  • Only use trusted sites when searching the Internet for important information (there have been multiple reports of false COVID-19 information being shared) or online shopping (look for the green lock symbol or “https:” before the site address) to protect your personal information and reputation.
  • Be aware of and watch out for email scams. Remember: NEVER provide personal or financial information in response to an email you can’t verify or weren’t expecting.

Be security-aware at home

  • Never store UTMB data, especially confidential or protected health information, on personally own devices.
  • Use different email accounts for work and personal communications.
  • Don’t use the same password for multiple Internet sites.
  • Don’t overshare personal information on social media sites.

For more information, visit the following sites and remember to be security-aware.  Security is everyone’s job, no matter where we are.  If you see suspicious computer activity, please report it to cirt@utmb.edu.

https://www.utmb.edu/is/working-remotely

https://www.utmb.edu/infosec