Do Your Part. #BeCyberSmart.

Don’t Be Outsmarted by Your Smart Devices 🧠

We’ve talked about cybersecurity in the office and at coffee shops. Let’s wrap up the month of Cybersecurity Awareness Month chatting about cybersecurity at home!

First up is personal devices for work. This one’s easy: don’t use them! But if you do, make sure to get them approved by our security team first.

Next are the Internet of Things (IoT) devices. We’re talking about internet-enabled toasters, refrigerators, vacuum cleaners—anything that can connect to Wi-Fi.

Cybercriminals can use your IoT devices to navigate through your network and get into your more sensitive-data-containing devices like your computers and smartphones. Only connect IoT devices to the internet when actually necessary (not just for the novelty of it), and make sure you keep all of them up to date. Always ask yourself: does the reward of the device outweigh the risk?

Speaking of at-home devices. We want to remind you that with cellular companies depreciating their 3G wireless networks, your older cellphone, security system, and even, Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS) might be impacted. You can find out how ‘3G Radio Sunset Could Spell Disaster for Home Alarm Systems‘ in our summer 2021 OIT Security Report.

Now that you have your drink and a secure internet connection, it’s time to find a seat. If you’re going to be looking at any kind of private information—private messages, personal photos, bank accounts, or anything else work-related—make sure you sit where no one else can see your screen. Otherwise, you might get shoulder surfers sneaking a look at your device.

Thank you all for celebrating Cybersecurity Awareness Month with us. ‘Til next year!

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Ian Aberle

Ian Aberle is an Adobe Creative Educator and the Senior IT Communications Specialist & Trainer for the Office of Information Technology (OIT). For over 25 years, he has helped the SMU community use technology and implement digital and web media through multiple roles with the Digital Commons, SMU STAR Program, and now OIT. Ian enjoys photography and road trips with his family in his free time.