Technology/Security Best Practices

Passwords

To further maintain the security of the University’s systems, effective February 2013, the University of Memphis will require annual password changes for all UUID accounts. Your password allows access to University data and networked resources. 

• Guidelines and additional information can be found on ITD’s Password Security website.

Anti-Virus Software

Viruses can corrupt data and slow down entire computer networks.  To protect your computer from infection, install anti-virus software, and update when prompted. 

• SafeConnect, the University's NAC system, recognizes a variety of Anti-Virus software. It is recommended to use an approved SafeConnect Anti-Virus product.

• University owned computers/laptops can use Microsoft Forefront at no cost. Forefront is available to faculty and staff for office computers and University-owned laptops at https://software.memphis.edu.

Spyware and Malware

Spyware or malware (malicious software) is software installed on your computer without your knowledge.  It may be installed while you are downloading an application or using a file sharing program online. It is recommended to use an approved SafeConnect Spyware product.

Operating Systems

New security concerns develop frequently.  The best way to protect your computer’s operating system is to install updates to the operating system.  Mac and Microsoft updates are FREE to download.

• Windows: http://update.microsoft.com/
• Mac: http://www.apple.com/support/downloads/

 Report a Technology Incident or Report Internet/Security Abuse

• Fill out the Security Incident Report Form
  
  
• Contact the University of Memphis Internet/Security Abuse group via email.

Confidential Data Best Practices

Storage

Encrypt all confidential data that is stored on a laptop or other portable media.  You can encrypt the entire hard drive of your laptop or an entire USB drive to ensure that the data cannot be viewed by anyone else. 

University owned laptops and portable media devices must be encrypted.  Local Support Providers (LSPs) in each department are responsible for assisting faculty and staff with this process.   Details and software information.

Delete/Erase

Deleting files from your computer, portable laptop or electronic storage media does not permanently remove the data.  The data must be overwritten before disposal. 

• Instructions for Equipment Disposal