Cybersecurity Starts With You: Key Reminders for Keeping MSUM Secure

Cybersecurity Starts With You: Key Reminders for Keeping MSUM Secure

Dear Faculty, Staff, and Students,

Cyberattacks continue to be more frequent and we are perpetually adjusting our security protocols to protect MSU Moorhead. System breaches, however, are often the result of an ill-advised click of a link in an email.

The IT teams at both Moorhead and the MNSCU System Office have incredible confidence in our security teams, multi-factor authentication protocols, and infrastructure systems. However, we should all remain consistent and vigilant in our efforts to stay secure.

Here are a few reminders related to cyber security, data security, and software purchasing that help to keep us secure:

1. Watch for Phishing Emails
   • Be cautious of unexpected emails asking for personal information or login credentials.
   • Don’t click suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources.
   • Report suspicious messages to IT/security.
2. Complete an IT risk assessment PRIOR to any software purchases or renewals
   • Do NOT use your P-card for software purchases or renewals without prior IT approval
   • Reach out to Terry Peterson in IT to initiate a risk assessment terry.peterson@mnstate.edu
3. Keep Devices and Software Updated
   • Run operating system and software updates as soon as they’re available.
   • Restart your device regularly so updates can install properly.
   • Ensure antivirus software is enabled and up to date.
4. Be Cautious on Public Wi-Fi
   • Avoid logging into university systems or accessing sensitive information over public/unsecured networks.
5. Protect Your Devices
   • Don’t leave laptops, phones, or USB drives unattended in public areas.
   • Lock your computer screen when stepping away, even briefly.
   • Use device encryption when possible.
6. Use University-Approved Tools
   • Only use apps and services approved by your department or IT.
   • Avoid free or unverified tools for file sharing, messaging, or conferencing.
7. Think Before You Share
   • Do not use AI tools if personally identifiable information is included such as IDs or names.
   • Be mindful of what you post or share on social media and in emails.
   • Avoid sharing sensitive academic, research, or personal data without proper permissions.
8. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
   • Avoid using the same password across accounts.
   • Consider using a passphrase (e.g., “CoffeeIsGreat@6am!”).
9. Know How to Get Help
   • Don’t hesitate to ask someone in IT Infrastructure to verify emails or sites!
   • Reach out to the MSUM IT Helpdesk using one of the following:  support@mnstate.edu, Phone: 218.477.2603, or the support portal https://support.mnstate.edu for chat or to submit a support ticket.

Please reach out with any questions or concerns. Thank you for your support and efforts to help keep us safe!

Sandie and the IT Crew

Sandie East, MBA (she/her/hers)
Campus Information Officer – Information Technology
MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY MOORHEAD
Phone 218.477.2300
203A Livingston Lord Library
sandie.east@mnstate.edu | MSUM Information Technology