When addressing information technology (IT) security at the College of Engineering (CoE), there are many considerations; from "hackers" who try to compromise vulnerable computers, to email viruses that flood inboxes. There are many ways the CoE community can counteract these threats and protect their personal computers, and the network. The following are a few suggestions (in no particular order) of simple tasks that can greatly increase the security of your computer:

• Keep your operating system (OS) updated - Most vendors provide free OS updates online. For example, Windows users should visit the Microsoft Update web site as often as possible to keep their computers updated and protected from vulnerabilities in the operating system. Mac OS users can obtain the latest security updates from the Apple web site. Other OS users should also keep up with the most the recent patches from their OS vendor.
• Obtain and update anti-virus software - The U-M Virus Busters team provides free anti-virus software to the U-M community. They post extensive information and updates on their web site about recent virus activity as well. CAEN strongly recommends that all users install VirusScan on their computers, and make sure it is updated daily. For more specific information about computer viruses, how to determine if you have been infected, and how to combat them, refer to http://virusbusters.itcs.umich.edu/.
• Use encrypted protocols - To ensure that all your network traffic is secure, CAEN strongly recommends you use encrypted protocols such as SSH, SFTP, and SSL, whenever possible.
• Set a secure password - Having a secure password can greatly reduce the chance of a malicious individual guessing your password and using your account. A few examples include one that does not contain any words from the dictionary (in any language), contains both upper- and lower-case letters, and contains non-alphabetic characters such as numbers and punctuation. Before creating your password, take a moment to review CAEN's password recommendations.
• Never respond to unsolicited email - Unsolicited bulk email, or "Spam," is a worldwide problem. Responding to spam, or clicking links within messages in an attempt to unsubscribe from a mailing list, may only result in your email address being placed on more lists. Another form of spam, known as phishing, asks recipients to provide personal/financial information. Never respond to a solicitation, reply to an email, or click on web links in a message if you are unsure of its origin; always contact your financial institutions by phone. For more information on spam, see our email pages.
• Never open unsolicited email attachments - Even if they appear to be from someone you know and trust, it is important to be cautious when opening attachments. Sending attachments in email messages are a major method for viruses to spread themselves across the Internet. Your friend or loved-one may be unaware that their infected computer has sent you an attachment. If you are at all unsure of the validity of an email attachment, try to contact the sender "offline." Of course the safest action, whenever in doubt, is to delete the message and the attachment.

For more further recommendations and tips on security, CAEN strongly recommends users to visit the U-M Virus Busters' security page.