Staying Safe Online requires some vigilance, so we’ve included some information below which will help you both at BU and at home. Most of this information is discussed within our cybersecurity awareness month video series.

• Learn how to recognize a Phishing/SPAM attack
  • What are some different kinds of phishing attacks
  • What to do if you have fallen victim to a phishing attack
• Creating a Strong Password
  • use phrases instead of just one word, or random password generators
  • don’t recycle old passwords
  • use separate passwords for separate services
  • consider using a password management utility
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
  • What is MFA, and how does it work to protect you
  • How to sign up for MFA at BU
  • Search for MFA options for your other personal services (eg. Banks, Email, Social media sites)
• Backups & Data Security
  • Cloudstorage options, External drives, Encryption
  • Notify people before sending them links to data
  • What is Ransomware?
• Use AntiVirus/AntiMalware software
• Use passcodes or passwords on your devices

When away from campus:

• Ensure home WiFi is using WPA2
  • Set your own passwords for home equipment.
  • Reduce WiFi coverage if it extends beyond your property.
  • Enable a guest network if you have guests
• Consider adding CIRA DNS settings on your home router or each device individually.
• When using Public WiFi avoid doing anything sensitive and use VPN if possible.
  • Pay attention to your surroundings. People looking at your screen.
• Look for secure sites and secure connections. (https)
• Keep Antivirus and device software patches up to date.
• Continue to use MFA for any of your services that support it.

More concerns to think about:

• Social Media:  Limit what you share, when you share it, and with whom.
• Social Engineering threats are more than just email: phishing/vishing
• Mobile devices need attention to security as well.