Have you ever thought, “Gee, my computer seems to be a bit sluggish. I wonder if there’s something wrong with it?” You’re certainly not the first. After a while, even computers get “tired” and need a little rest or some “healthy” changes. Below, you’ll find some tips to keep your computer running as smoothly as… Continue reading Tech Tip: Keep Your Computer Running Smoothly
Category: Students
Tech Support during Winter Break
Winter break starts on December 18. The Helpdesk will be open reduced hours during the intercession. However, the period between Christmas and the new year is a break for the college offices. While most offices on campus will be closed starting on December 23 and not reopening until January 2, the IT Helpdesk will be… Continue reading Tech Support during Winter Break
Be Aware of Holiday Scams
While the holidays are a great time for all to relax and enjoy the company of family and friends, scammers are working non-stop to cheat you out of money or gain access to your accounts. Remaining vigilant during this time is imperative to ensure the security of your user accounts and your bank and other… Continue reading Be Aware of Holiday Scams
Don’t get Tricked. Updates are a Treat!
Software updates – whether for application software or the computer’s operating system – are important to install. While some of them are updates to features or fixes for bugs that we’ve never experienced, many also include important fixes for security risks in the software. It is imperative that we keep our software up-to-date with all the latest updates and patches. Not only does this allow us to be using the latest and greatest features of the software, but it also prevents scammers, hackers, and other ne’er-do-wells from gaining unauthorized access to our systems, allowing malicious activity, such as identity theft or bank account access.
Phishing, not Fishing
Phishing? Don’t you mean “fishing?” Nope! Phishing, which has nothing to do with that band from Vermont, is a scam that tries to gather personal data from a user. This could include your account names and passwords or even more sensitive data, like your Social Security number or bank account information. These scams use social engineering to trick the victim into sending this information to the scammer via email, text message, or even a web form.
Two-Step? Isn’t that a dance?
Multi-factor authentication (MFA), also known as two-factor or two-step authentication (2FA), is an additional means of user verification prior to being allowed access to your account. Which accounts does this include? Well, it should include all accounts that you use that offer it as an option.
Pump Up Your Passwords
Passwords are the first line of protection for your accounts. Weak passwords allow hackers and scammers easy access to your accounts – at best, allowing them to see your photos, but at worst allowing them access to your bank accounts. The good news is that it is not difficult to prevent unauthorized access. Strong, unique passwords can prevent your account from being compromised. Using a password manager can help keep these longer, harder to remember passwords at your finger tips. Continue reading for more information on creating stronger passwords and using password managers.
Tech Tip: Microsoft Authenticator for MFA
Microsoft Authenticator is the most secure method for the second factor of authentication when accessing your accounts at the college. It’s also the most versatile method. For these reasons, it is the IT Department’s recommended method for MFA. While Microsoft Authenticator works best when your device has an internet connection, either via Wi-Fi or a… Continue reading Tech Tip: Microsoft Authenticator for MFA
Email Scams: Watch for these Red Flags
Email scams are on the rise. The most important line of defense against scams is you! Here are some “red flags” to look out for when reading your email. If you receive an email that raises any of those red flags: Please be sure to report phishing scams to Microsoft to better improve the email filters. To help better protect your account, we… Continue reading Email Scams: Watch for these Red Flags
Use QR Codes for “On the Go” Website Access
QR codes make for an easy way to provide access to your websites for folks who are on the move with only a smartphone in hand. They eliminate the need to write down, type out, or worse, remember a long URL. The college’s Adobe license provides free access to a QR code generator that is… Continue reading Use QR Codes for “On the Go” Website Access
