Keep Personal Information Private

by Thomas Roberts

The information age has greatly changed the way people communicate and operate businesses.  This dynamic process continues to evolve and adds easy access to important information and powerful tools via our desktops.   The sheer computing power on current desktops is far greater than a room full of computing equipment was a short time ago.  Along with the rapid improvement of personal computing power, responsibility for personal information has also changed.

It cannot be understated how much power has shifted to desktop users.  While there are many advantages to instant information access, those who prey on stealing or disrupting the information of others benefit as well.  Hackers enjoy fast access to information and use these technologies for SPAM, identity theft, and denial of service attacks or even temporary storage of electronic files.  Anyone that follows technology headlines can tell you that hackers are so organized that software vulnerabilities can be announced and the tools to exploit those vulnerabilities are available the next day.  It is also important to note the sharp increase in reported viruses and worms in the past year, suggesting that things may get even worse. 

This alarming trend should be a call to action.  While BGSU has a dedicated support staff doing a very commendable job, end users play an important role in helping to secure their desktops and personal information.  These skills can also be applied at home to help keep their families’ personal information private and secure.  This responsibility is imperative for mobile computing users, especially with the increased use of Personal Digital Assistants and mobile phones containing personal information. 

Understandably, people are pressed to find the extra time and energy needed to learn about protecting personal information.  The responsibility of securing personal data does have a learning curve but it takes far less time than the years required restoring one’s good credit rating when an identity has been stolen.  Take the time to learn about securing your desktop and keep private information private. 

Here are a few tips:

>  Keep your virus protection updated.  Sometimes multiple updates can be released weekly.  Use automatic updating, if available, or ask your support staff for help to enable this feature.

>  Untested software can contain spyware or Trojans.  Do a little research before you download new software.

>  Keep your operating system updated.  Updates help keep hackers out.  Microsoft has constant updates for Windows and also releases major updates monthly.  Although Macintosh users currently have far less reported vulnerabilities in their software, hackers are increasing their attention to this platform and are trying to find ways in.  This reinforces the need for Macintosh users to keep up with software updates and learn to secure their desktops. 

>  Visit the ITS Information Security & Privacy website at:  www.bgsu.edu/infosec

The ITS Security Team releases alerts when new vulnerabilities are announced and provide links to information to help secure your PC and personal information.  You also can email abuse@bgnet.bgsu.edu if you have questions or information you would like to see added to the Web site.