Protect Your Devices
Overview
Your devices are an important part of cyber hygiene because they provide access to college systems, personal information, work files, email, and cloud services. Keeping computers, phones, tablets, and portable storage devices protected helps reduce the risk of data loss, malware, theft, and unauthorized access.
Getting Started
Follow these steps to protect your devices and reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
Device Note
- McLennan Community College (MCC) owned: many security protections, such as software updates, encryption, and security tools are managed for you.
- Personal device: it is important to review these steps and keep your device protected.
Keep Software Up to Date
Keep your software updated to help protect your device from known security risks and vulnerabilities.
- Install updates for your operating system (OS), applications, web browsers, and security tools.
- Turn on automatic updates when available.
- Restart your device when prompted so updates can finish installing.
Use Strong Authentication
Strong authentication helps prevent unauthorized access to your devices and accounts.
- Use strong, unique passwords (16+ characters) or passphrases.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA), such as Duo, when available.
- Use biometrics, such as fingerprint or face recognition, when supported.
- Consider using a password manager to securely store passwords.
Maintain Security Software
Security software helps detect and prevent malware, viruses, and other threats.
- Use trusted antivirus or anti-malware software.
- Keep your security software updated.
- Run regular scans when available.
- Make sure your device firewall is enabled.
Protect Your Data
Protect your files and sensitive information to help reduce the risk of data loss or exposure.
- Enable device encryption (for personal devices).
- Use caution with USB drives and portable storage devices.
- Store important files in approved locations, such as OneDrive or SharePoint (365).
- Back up important data regularly.
Keep Devices Physically Secure
Physical security is important to help prevent theft or unauthorized access.
- Do not leave devices unattended in public places.
- Lock your screen when stepping away from your device.
- Use secure storage options, such as locked drawers or cable locks, when appropriate.
You Suspect Your Device is Compromised
Take the following steps if your device has been infected with malware or accessed without permission.
- Disconnect the device from the network if possible.
- Discontinue using the device for college systems until it has been reviewed.
- Change affected passwords immediately from a different trusted device.
Additional Details
- For device security concerns, suspicious activity, questions about protecting your MCC accounts or files, or your device has been lost or stolen, contact: