Top tips to keep you safe
Our workspaces could be anywhere in the world. If you are working or studying on campus or from home, or catching up on some work or research on the train or while traveling, you need to protect your data and devices.
Secure your devices
Never leave your devices, laptop or computer unattended
- Physical Security – reduce the risk of theft, data loss and physical damage to your devices
- Smartphone and tablet security – Treat these devices like treasure
- System and software updates - Apply updates to all of your devices' operating systems and software when prompted
Always lock your devices, laptop or computer when not using them
Ways to lock a Windows PC or laptop:
- Press the Windows logo key and L at the same time
- Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete at the same time, then select Lock from the options on screen
Ways to lock an Apple Mac desktop or laptop:
- When using a MacBook, MacBook Air or a MacBook Pro, just close the lid
- Go to the Apple menu and choose Sleep
- On the latest macOS version: press Command, Control and Q at the same time
- On an older macOS version: press Control, Shift and the power button at the same time
Avoid phishing scams
Everyone is a potential target; avoid email and online scams that may trick you in an attempt to steal your details.
Password management
Create strong passwords, change them regularly, and never share them with anyone.
Personal information
Always keep your personal information, accounts, and passwords as secure as possible to reduce your risk when online. Never give out your personal details.
The University will never ask you for your password in an email, directly or via a link.
Safeguard your data
Safeguard your data from getting lost or falling into the wrong hands: use VPN, apply updates to devices when prompted, back up files, and share files securely.
Travel securely
If travelling to locations that are assessed as high risk, there may be additional concerns around information authorities can access from your device(s).
Install antivirus
If you have a Staff Standard Desktop (SSD) or a UofG managed device, then antivirus, malware protection, and firewalls are managed for you. If you manage your own system, then you are responsible for ensuring it has the most up-to-date protection.
Always use MFA
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.