The Office of Technology Services (OTS) is continually improving cybersecurity at Towson University. Some efforts are behind the scenes, and some depend on active participation from the campus. Here are some ways you can help protect your info and TU data:
Store information securely
If you are responsible for personally identifiable information (PII), like social security, password or credit card numbers, be sure you are storing them securely. Visit www.towson.edu/dataprivacy for definitions of types of data, and USM classification of PII. If you need specific guidance, contact the Office of Information Security by submitting a TechHelp service request.
Update your NetID password and security questions
Now is a great time to update your NetID security questions and password. Go to www.towson.edu/netid to manage your account settings and make your security questions difficult for a third party to guess. Avoid standard questions like “the street where you grew up,” instead using details that only you would know, like “the name of your favorite childhood friend.” While you are there, update your password.
Enroll in and use Duo
This multi-factor authentication is being rolled out and all faculty and staff now eligible to enroll. Banks, credit card companies and even app stores are using this for account protection – and it is now used by Towson University. Visit www.towson.edu/duo for more details, including links to resources for enrolling.
Think before you click
Review emails closely before clicking through or responding – one click on a malicious link and protected info could be exposed to hackers. Forward suspicious email to phishing@towson.edu, then delete. The Office of Information Security will review the email to determine if it is safe. For resources on how to spot phishing scams, and to see actual examples of recent attempts visit www.towson.edu/phishing.
If you have questions, or would like more information about these efforts, please submit a TechHelp service request.
