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Information Security
Article Archive #2
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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.
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Agentic AI Browsers and Associated Risks
Unlike traditional browsers, which rely on user clicks and keystrokes, Agentic AI browsers integrate autonomous agents into the browsing experience. These tools interpret natural language commands and are capable of executing multi-step tasks across websites. Popular AI Browser examples include: These browsers aim to boost productivity by automating tasks like booking appointments, comparing products, or…
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Don’t Delete That Suspicious Email
Phishing emails are among the most common threats facing universities today. These messages appear legitimate, enticing you to click on malicious links, download harmful attachments, or give away sensitive information. At UT, we rely on your help to identify and stop these threats. That’s why reporting suspicious emails is essential—not just deleting them. What Happens…
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Understanding Passwordless Authentication
Passwordless authentication is a modern security practice that eliminates the need for traditional passwords to verify a user’s identity. Instead, it relies on alternative methods such as biometrics, physical security keys, or cryptographic keys stored on a device to grant access. This approach reduces security risks such as reused passwords, stolen credentials, and weak authentication…
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.
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Watch Out! FedNow Scams
FedNow is a new instant payment service created by the Federal Reserve. This service allows banks from all over the US to provide instant funds to any of their customers. Any consumer could use FedNow to send and receive payments instantly. In the coming months, we expect to see an influx of cybercriminals trying to…
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Ransomware?
Ransomware is malicious software, also known as malware, designed to encrypt files on a computer, making them unreadable. The creators (the bad guys) then demand a ransom in exchange for a “key” to unlock the files on the computer. Ransomware incidents can severely impact personal and university processes, leaving the victims without the data on…
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Linktree Scam
Linktree is a landing page service where businesses and individuals can list multiple links from a single page. This service is often used on social media to share and access various webpages easily. However, cybercriminals can also use Linktree to host malicious links to try to steal your personal information. In a recent scam, the…
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AI Phishbait
intelligence (AI) has become increasingly popular in the past year. Many people have started using AI chatbots like ChatGPT or Google Bard. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are taking advantage of AI’s popularity to steal your information. In a recent scam, cybercriminals created fake Facebook ads for free downloads of AI products. If you click one of these…
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.
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Safeguarding Your Data in the Cloud: A Guide to Cloud Security
In today’s digital age, cloud computing has become an integral part of how we store, access, and share data. Whether you’re an end user or an IT professional, understanding cloud security is crucial for safeguarding sensitive information. Let’s explore some essential tips to help you navigate the world of cloud security. Remember, cloud security is…
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Safeguarding Your Online Presence: A Guide to Secure Social Media Use
In today’s interconnected world, social media has become integral to our daily lives. It’s a great way to stay in touch with friends, share experiences, and network professionally. However, it’s crucial to remember that the information we share online can have significant implications for our privacy and security. Here are some tips on how to…
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Compromised Workstations & Laptops
An early nineteenth-century Prussian General stated, “No plan survives contact with the enemy.” President Eisenhower said, “…plans are useless, but planning is indispensable.” Ransomware, the type of attack where the bad guys take your data and render it useless, is recent. The methods to prevent it or lessen its impact are not. It’s your IT Professionals’ age-old, sage advice: “Patch it, back it up, and above all, don’t click…
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.
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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…
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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…
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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”…