Campus Connection

In today's world of wireless communication, people are able to communicate from nearly anywhere. Devices such as laptops, smart-phones, tablets and even MP3 players are certainly convenient, but they also present new risks. They are susceptible to digital intruders if your Internet connection is not secure. For instance, when people send email from a device using an open Wi-Fi connection in a coffee shop or pub, the traffic transferring from the computer to the Internet through the wireless connection could be watched by others. If the website address of your browser contains only http — with no ‘s’ at the end — this means you are sending content in clear text and it can be read using programs used to monitor network traffic. This traffic is not encrypted and information such as passwords and personal information could be compromised. If the website address reads https — with an ‘s’ at the end — the connection is encrypted and can’t be read. Open wireless connections are not a bad thing. Users must be conscious of what they are doing online. If you are sending any personal or private information make sure it is encrypted, so your privacy and security is maintained. “Because mobile devices are so powerful these days, it’s important to be conscious of what the device is capable of doing, what data is stored on that device and how that device is communicating,” explains Jim Treu, UW-L’s information security officer. Because mobile devices are typically small, they are also easy targets for thieves of the non-digital kind. Check out tips below to avoid losing your mobile device or the information it contains. Tips for stronger mobile security

• Keep your device close: Don’t leave it unattended. Lock offices and other spaces where you store the device.
• Password protect your mobile device: Choose a strong password to guard against intrusion if the device is lost.
• Use a bag for your laptop that doesn’t scream: “I’m carrying a laptop.”
• If your mobile device is stolen, immediately disable any accounts, which could be accessed.
• This includes a code to initially use the device and to protect important documents on it.
• Use antivirus software: Just like you protect your desktop computer, software is available to protect mobile devices.

This is the third of four information security stories in the Campus News this month as part of Information Security Awareness Month. Throughout October, UW-L information technology and communication officials will be providing tips for more security in the Internet age. Stay tuned for tips on system security.