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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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The Importance of Software Updates
There is always a bit of annoyance when we see that our computer needs an update. It always seems to happen when we are right in the middle of important work. We begrudgingly either install the updates or pick a time for the inevitable reboot. But did you know that generally, those updates only cover…
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Reporting Cybercrime
We all know that we should report any cyber incidents to the OIT HelpDesk and eventually OIT Security. This is the most important thing you can do following a cyber incident with university devices and data. What if, however, it’s your data and your devices? Thankfully it is National Cyber Security Awareness Month and the…
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What is Encryption?
You’ve probably heard of encryption at some point. Encryption is a key technology in both business and consumer applications. Perhaps you’ve used encryption in messaging applications or your emails without even knowing. So, what is encryption and how does it work? Encryption is a process used to protect data by converting it into a coded…
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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Pretexting
Now more than ever, cybercriminals are using a tactic known as pretexting to catch you off guard. Pretexting is when a cybercriminal impersonates a real person and asks you for help with a fake scenario. They often carry on a conversation with you and use public information to convince you that they are who they…
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Permission to Hack
Malware researchers recently discovered a trojan app on the Google Play Store. Trojans are malicious applications or software that appear legitimate. Thousands of users downloaded this app before knowing it was malicious. So, it’s important to learn how to spot malicious apps. In this scam, cybercriminals uploaded a malicious screen recording app on the Google…
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PayPal Payment Ploy
Recently, cybercriminals have taken advantage of the popular (and international) online payment platform, PayPal. Cybercriminals are spoofing PayPal to try and steal your personal or financial information. Cybercriminals in this PayPal ploy send you a phishing email saying that one of your payments didn’t process and that you must act fast. The email contains a…
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Smishing for Bank Information
A smishing attack(a phishing attack through SMS, or “text” messaging) was recently used by a ring of cybercriminals to steal credit card information. The cybercriminals used this stolen bank information to purchase cryptocurrency (BITCOIN) that they then exchanged for cash. Cybercriminals sent SMS messages pretending to be a bank. The message says that a security…
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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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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Compelling Reason to Lock Your Screen
It only takes a few seconds for someone to access your computer, and that’s all it takes to compromise sensitive data, send unauthorized emails, or install malicious software. Whether you’re in a shared office, classroom, or public space, locking your screen when stepping away is one of the simplest ways to protect your device and…
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5 Cybersecurity Habits for a Safer Campus
Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Whether you’re a student, faculty, or staff member, your daily digital habits play a critical role in protecting the University of Tennessee’s systems and data. Here are five simple habits that can make a big difference: 1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords or a Password Manager Reusing passwords across accounts is…
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”…