We may be halfway through October, but the Office of Information Technology (OIT)is ramping up its efforts to educate the campus community as part of Cyber Security Awareness Month.
OIT staff kicked off the campaign with an all-day seminar last week, but has more in store. For instance, UC Merced faculty, staff, graduate students and postdoctoral scholars who travel internationally for business can now check out loaner devices to use when they are abroad. These devices are specially configured for international use and are available for up to 30 days of business travel use.
OIT knows that knowledge is a powerful weapon in the battle to keep information secure in online spaces, and team members are making themselves available to answer questions on the topic at several campus events. Staff will be tabling at Homecoming on Oct. 21, the Integrity Week Resources Fair on Oct. 25 and at the Eco Fest Fair on Oct. 26. All members of the UC Merced community are welcome to stop by the OIT table and snag some swag. OIT’s website also offers a wealth of information related to cybersecurity and the services available to members of the campus community.
Beware, though — OIT has a few tricks up its sleeve to be sure everyone on campus is paying attention to cybersecurity this month. Phishing simulations are planned for later in the month, but don’t worry. Those who take the bait won’t have their information compromised. Instead, they’ll be directed to an educational website offering tips to avoid falling victim to such scams in the future.
“Phishing is the number one cybersecurity issue facing our students,” said Nick Dugan, UC Merced’s Chief Information Security Officer. “OIT is considering a variety of technology solutions to mitigate risk, but the best way to combat phishing is through training and awareness.”
