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Information Security

Safeguarding Your Remote Work



Remote work in higher education is now the norm. To keep your online work safe using university-provided tools like OneDrive and Microsoft Teams, follow these straightforward steps:

  1. Secure Your Wi-Fi:
    Set a strong password for your home Wi-Fi to keep unwanted visitors out.
  2. Leverage University Tools:
    Make the most of university-provided tools like OneDrive for file storage and Microsoft Teams for meetings and collaboration.
  3. Device Protection:
    Keep your devices (computer, tablet, phone) updated with security patches.
  4. Secure Video Calls:
    Use University-endorsed video chat tools like Microsoft Teams for private meetings. Enhance security by adding a password to your meetings and using waiting rooms.
  5. Two-Step Verification (2FA):
    Strengthen your account security by enabling 2FA in university-provided services.
  6. File Sharing Safely:
    If you must share sensitive information, consider using the university’s vault system at https://vault.utk.edu. The UT vault ensures that only the specified recipient can access the information.
  7. Remote Desktop Caution:
    Exercise care when using remote desktop tools, ensuring they are approved by the OIT.
  8. Beware of Phishing Emails:
    Learn how to recognize and avoid phishing emails, especially when working remotely.
  9. Back-Up Your Work:
    Safeguard your work by saving it in Microsoft OneDrive. OneDrive also supports versioning of files in case of corruption or infection.
  10. Report Suspicious Activity:
    If you notice anything unusual or suspicious, report it to OIT. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Working remotely in higher education is convenient and secure when you use the university-provided tools while taking these precautionary steps.