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: TechNews
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
Welcome Back
Technology is excited to welcome you back to campus! Whether you’re new or have been here for years, we’re here to assist you. The Technology Service Desk is located on the ground floor of the MCB, room A-050. The Service Desk’s services, including walk-up support and equipment loans, are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Not on campus or remote? Our Service Desk provides technical support on a wide variety of topics. We can help you troubleshoot problems with your computer, account access, printing, Zoom, and many other technology-related issues. Our website provides access to many resources including contact information, support hours, FAQs, service and support request forms, classroom and event support information, and hardware and software discounts.