Simple Steps for Safe Computing

This document has been written to assist University personnel in the safe use of computers. We use computers for many functions, examples include completing assessments, reports, communication, and on line services. Safeguarding the computer and the information stored is important, as the loss or theft of information can cause inconvenience and have financial and other consequences.

For more information on IT Security in the University, and IT Security in general, please visit: http://www.infodiv.unimelb.edu.au/it-security/

The graphic below illustrates the simple steps that can be taken for secure computing. Click on each of the images for more information.

Have a Secure Way of Escape
Make copies of your work files and store them in a separate location like file servers or USB memory sticks. Avoid floppy disks as they are susceptible to data loss due to magnetic fields from sources like electrical wiring and security entrances in libraries.
Action: Make copies of your work files and store them in a separate and secure location.

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Apply Patches and Updates
Computers administered by the University will be regularly updated to handle viruses and patches. Please consult your LITE if you have queries on this. If you administer your own computer, check with the relevant software vendors for information on updates and patches.
Action: Anti-virus signatures, operating system and applications must be updated regularly.

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Be Cautious About What Gets In
Only execute or download files that are from known and trustworthy sources, as anti-virus software is not foolproof. Do not open email attachments in unsolicited emails, check with the sender if necessary. Seemingly benign websites can attempt to install malicious software on your computer. Email is inherently secure, and must not be used to communicate sensitive information. Be wary of unsolicited emails requesting information or inviting you to click on a link.
Action: Be cautious of what you execute on your computer, unsolicited emails and the websites you visit.

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Perform Housekeeping and Disinfection
Use a good anti-virus software. Configure it to scan every file accessed through any source, eg Email, Internet, and disks. Occasionally, scan all disks for viruses and file errors.
Action: Implement immigration, customs, and police-like checks on your computer.

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Use Strong Passwords
Passwords should be easy for you to remember, yet difficult for others to guess. Consider using a phrase, or the initials in a phrase. Strong passwords are typically at least 8 characters long, and include upper and lowercase alphabets, numbers and punctuation marks. Secure your passwords as you would secure your passport or driving license, these are used to authenticate your identity.
Action: Use strong passwords and keep them confidential.

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Consider Using a Firewall
A firewall helps you specify which other computers on the network your computer may communicate with. This will avoid unsolicited connections to your computer. A firewall can also be configured to request for your permission before allowing applications to access the network or Internet. There are free software firewalls available for download via the Internet. A software firewall or hardware firewall device is strongly recommended for network or Internet connections that are active for long periods of time, for example, broadband Internet connections or wireless networks.
Action: Implement a firewall for greater security.
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Know the Regulations and Policies
Regulations and policies advise on good computing practices and related issues like copyright. They also protect you from inappropriate actions of others. These documents are available at:
http://www.infodiv.unimelb.edu.au/it-security/regsandpols.html
Action: Be familiar with the Regulations and Policies.

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For more information on IT Security in the University, and IT Security in general, please visit: http://www.infodiv.unimelb.edu.au/it-security/