Dear Simmons Community,
October marks the 23rd annual Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This year’s national theme “Building a Cyber-Strong America” is a reminder that attackers don’t take days off, and neither should our vigilance.
Category Archives: Special News
AI Deepfakes: What to Know
AI-generated “deepfakes” make scams faster, cheaper, and more convincing.
Common risks
- Scams & hoaxes: Fabricated videos or audio of leaders, staff, or brands to damage reputations or move money.
- Election manipulation: Fake content to incite unrest or spread propaganda.
- Social engineering: Voice cloning mimics loved ones or colleagues to spark “urgent” money requests.
How to spot them
- Eyes & blinking look off or too perfect.
- Facial seams/morphing and odd expressions.
- Body/hair inconsistencies (face looks real, rest doesn’t).
- Lighting/skin tone mismatches; misplaced shadows.
- Lip-sync doesn’t match the words.
- Jerky head/body movements or distortion on motion.
- “Prove you’re live” test: Ask for a quick, specific action on video; deepfakes often glitch.
General tips for cybersecurity:
- Update software: Update Your Software frequently (Read more about how to check for software updates on your MacOS, Windows, Android, or iOS device)
- Use strong, unique passwords: Aim for 16+ characters (passphrases work great). Never reuse passwords. (Learn more in our Information Security Policy)
- Use a password manager: Generate/store unique passwords and reduce phishing risk.
- Turn on MFA everywhere: Especially email and banking. Extend SharkPass/Duo to personal/3rd-party accounts that support it.
- Spot & report phishing (including calendar invites!): Beware urgency and requests for sensitive data. Verify directly. In Gmail, use Report phishing, or contact Technology.
- Encrypt devices & backups: Most devices include built-in encryption – enable it.
Political & Election-Season Tips
- Verify voter sites: Prefer .gov; go directly to your state’s website or trusted resources like Vote.org.
- Avoid donation scams: Use established platforms (e.g., ActBlue/WinRed). Don’t donate via DMs or informal apps.
- Check political ads: Look for sources; cross-verify claims with reputable news.
- Use social media carefully: Fact-check surprising posts (e.g., FactCheck.org). Don’t share unverified content.
- Watch for phishing: Don’t click unknown links/attachments. In Gmail, mark Phishing or notify Technology.
Remember: Never share personal data (SSN, banking info) over phone, text, or email. Legitimate organizations won’t ask for it.
As always, Please send any questions or concerns to Simmons Information Security Officer, Kristen Howard, or the Technology Service Desk.
Stay secure,
Kristen Howard
Simmons Information Security Officer
21st annual Cybersecurity Awareness Month
Greetings Simmons Community,
As we enter October, we celebrate the 21st annual Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This year’s theme, “Secure Our World,” emphasizes the importance of daily actions to reduce online risks. As your Information Security Officer, I’m committed to fostering a secure digital environment for our entire university community.
Focus on the Human Element
This year, we’re highlighting the crucial role each individual plays in cybersecurity. By making smart decisions online, whether at work, home, or school, we can collectively enhance our digital safety.
Four Key Actions to Enhance Your Cybersecurity
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Utilize SharkPass/Duo to add the extra layer of security provided to you for Simmons accounts to other third-party accounts.
- Use Strong Passwords Create unique, complex, strong passwords for all accounts. Consider using a password manager for added security.
- Recognize and Report Phishing Stay vigilant against unsolicited messages requesting personal information. Report suspicious emails to Technology.
- Update Your Software Regularly Ensure all your devices have the latest security patches and updates.
Cybersecurity in Education
Simmons University is proud to be designated as a Center for Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Education by the NSA. This recognition underscores our commitment to preparing students for the evolving cybersecurity landscape. This prestigious recognition places Simmons among a select group of institutions nationwide dedicated to reducing vulnerabilities in national information infrastructure.
Stay Safe During Election Season
As we approach the 2024 election, it’s essential to be vigilant about cybersecurity. Here are key strategies to protect yourself:
Verify Voter Registration Sites
- Check for Official Domains: Always look for .gov endings.
- Go Directly to State Websites: Avoid clicking on links; use trusted sources like Vote.org.
Avoid Donation Scams
- Use Trusted Platforms: Donate through ActBlue for Democrats and WinRed for Republicans.
- Be Cautious with Informal Methods: Avoid sending donations via messaging apps.
Spot Misleading Political Ads
- Check the Source: Look for credible references in ads.
- Cross-Verify Claims: Use trusted news outlets to confirm information.
Navigate Social Media Safely
- Fact-Check Surprising Claims: Use reliable sources like FactCheck.org.
- Be Careful with Sharing: Avoid spreading unverified posts.
Protect Against Phishing
- Be Wary of Unsolicited Messages: Don’t click links or download attachments from unknown senders.
- Report Suspicious Emails: Notify Technology.
By practicing these strategies, you can help create a safer online environment during this critical election period.
Remember, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. By working together, we can create a safer digital environment for our entire Simmons community.
Stay secure,
Kristen Howard
Simmons Information Security Officer