Explore
Write
Chat
Call
Information Security
Article Archive #2
Service navigation
Importance of Security
Information security is about addressing and reducing IT RISK. It’s easy to overlook risk as a topic when all you hear is talk about passwords, firewalls, encryption, policies, or two-factor authentication. In this section, you’ll read about how the university is at risk and what you can do to reduce the risk in your group, department, and college.
-
The Importance of Keeping Your Web Browser Updated
In today’s digital age, web browsers play a crucial role in our daily lives. Whether you’re shopping online, reading news articles, or accessing work-related resources, your browser is your gateway to the internet. But have you ever wondered why it’s essential to keep your browser up to date? Let’s explore the reasons behind this important…
-
The Importance of Network Security: Keeping Our Devices Safe with MOD1
As part of our ongoing security awareness program, we would like to share some important information about the safety of our devices and data. In today’s digital age, the security of our information is paramount. This article aims to shed light on why we should never put our machines directly on the Internet and the…
-
AI & Machine Learning Risks in Cybersecurity
In an age where technology is evolving at breakneck speeds, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have become integral to our daily lives. From powering smart assistants to optimizing research, their benefits are remarkable. However, with great power comes great responsibility—and risk. This article aims to shed light on the potential risks that AI…
Scam Types
Scams used to be easier to detect without worry. A Nigerian prince asks for a few hundred dollars to give you access to his fortune. But those days are gone, and scammers are in a constant arms race with cybersecurity for your sensitive information. Learn about the different types of scams and how to deal with them.
-
Keep IT Private and Separate
“YOU” exist in digital form all over the Internet. It is thus important to ensure that the “digital YOU” matches what you intend to share. It is also critical to guard your privacy — not only to avoid embarrassment but also to protect your identity and finances! The following are specific steps you can take…
-
IT or Cybercriminal?
Coinbase, a cryptocurrency platform, is the latest victim of a social engineering attack. Social engineering occurs when cybercriminals manipulate you to try to steal your sensitive information. In this Coinbase attack, a cybercriminal sent smishing (SMS phishing) messages to their employees containing a link directing them to log in to their company accounts. Shortly after…
-
There was PHISHING. Then, there was SMISHING!
A single sign-on (SSO) service allows you to log in to multiple accounts using one login credential, such as your NETID and the Central Authentication Service (CAS). Unfortunately, you aren’t the only one who benefits from this service. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of SSO services in a recent smishing (SMS phishing) scam. A SMISHING scam…
-
Beware of Scams Related to Recent Earthquakes!
Last week, two earthquakes occurred in Turkey and Syria. Unfortunately, cybercriminals often use crises to get your attention and manipulate your emotions. Cybercriminals have already begun exploiting this event to scam you and steal your sensitive information. You should not be surprised to see an influx of phishing attacks referencing this recent event. Cybercriminals may…
Benefits & Tips for You
In this section, you can learn about all the different tools available to you at UT, such as secure file sharing and monitoring your systems. We will also share best practices for staying secure at school and at home.
-
Tips for Securing macOS
It’s no surprise that macOS is the second-biggest operating system worldwide. Apple has a well-regulated array of computers available for consumers that merge many strengths of the whole Apple ecosystem. However, this doesn’t mean that you should not take any steps to help secure your macOS computer. Securing your Apple computer involves several steps to…
-
MFA + Strong Passwords: Your Best Defense Against Account Attacks
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts by requiring more than just a password to sign in. Even if a password is stolen through phishing, malware, or a data breach, MFA can still prevent an attacker from accessing your account. This additional safeguard is especially important because passwords can be…
-
Find Out If Your Data Was Exposed in a Breach
Data breaches continue to affect major organizations, and recent reporting has linked the ShinyHunters extortion group to incidents involving Charter Communications, a company with services branded as Spectrum. A simple way to check whether your email address appears in a known breach data is to use Have I Been Pwned at haveibeenpwned.com. This site lets you search your…
Protecting University Data
Discover essential articles on cybersecurity practices specifically tailored for the University of Tennessee. Learn effective strategies to safeguard sensitive information, defend against threats, and maintain data integrity. Equip yourself with knowledge to protect your university’s digital ecosystem.
-
MFA + Strong Passwords: Your Best Defense Against Account Attacks
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts by requiring more than just a password to sign in. Even if a password is stolen through phishing, malware, or a data breach, MFA can still prevent an attacker from accessing your account. This additional safeguard is especially important because passwords can be…
-
Digital Privacy—What is a Data Broker?
In today’s digital age, personal information has become a valuable commodity. Data brokers have emerged as key players in this data-driven economy. Data brokers operate behind the scenes, gathering vast amounts of personal information from various sources. They compile detailed profiles on individuals and sell this data to businesses, marketers, and even government agencies. Understanding…
-
Getting Into the Mindset of a Hacker
Have you ever wondered how a hacker looks at systems and finds unexpected ways around controls meant to keep them out? Is this a special mindset or a thought process that is learned? The mindset of a hacker can vary widely, but generally, it involves a few key traits and perspectives: While the term “hacker”…