Check out this video from the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (“CISA”) on four things you can do to stay safe online:
Four Easy ways to stay safe online!
Category Archives: TechNews
Avoid Becoming a Social Engineering Victim – Four Questions to Ask Yourself:
Social engineering is a scam where a cybercriminal attempts to trick someone into taking an action against their own best interests. Usually, the action results in the victim providing confidential information (like their login information) or installing malware on their computer. Most social engineering attacks have four common traits, which signal a far higher likelihood of a scam if all are present.
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Did the message arrive unexpectedly? Yes. Is it the first time the sender has asked you to perform the requested action? Yes. Does the request include a stressor, such as “You need to do this now”? Yes. Can performing the request harm your interest? Yes. If you answer yes to all of them, you should go out of your way to confirm the request is legitimate. Use a trusted method like calling or texting the sender before taking any action.
Not every message with these four traits is absolutely a social engineering scam. Our email inboxes, voicemail and postal mailboxes are full of unexpected requests; that is life. But when these four traits are present, stop, look, and think before you act!
Phishing and Social Engineering
Phishing and social engineering campaigns are still a top source of ransomware and other malware[1].
Phishing is a type of cybersecurity attack where malicious actors send messages pretending to be a trusted person. Social Engineering is the psychological manipulation of people into performing actions like installing malicious software, clicking a malicious link, or divulging sensitive information.
Reduce your chances of your falling victim to phishing attacks!
Beware of messages that:
- Do not clearly identify themselves or their company
- Come from an email address that does not match the company’s domain
- Do not give full contact information such as the title of sender, the company’s physical address, or phone number
- Make too good to be true offers with no strings attached
- Ask to pay an upfront fee or asks you to transfer money for them
- Ask to give your credit card or bank account numbers
- Ask to send copies of personal documents
- Remember: DO NOT provide any personal information, especially Social Security numbers or financial information. Legitimate companies would not ask for this information over the phone or email.
If an email looks suspicious, do not respond and do not click on any links or attachments. When available, “Report phishing” to block other suspicious emails.
[1] 2023 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR)
Please send any questions or concerns to Simmons Information Security Officer, Kristen Howard, or the Technology Service Desk.
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 Support Center (TSC) is located on the ground floor of the MCB, room A-050. TSC’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.
Moodle Upgrade
The Simmons Moodle platform is scheduled for an upgrade before the Spring 2024 semester commences. To ensure a smooth transition to the enhanced user experience, we will be sharing updates and sneak peeks of the upcoming features during the Fall semester. If you’re interested in getting acquainted with the fresh offerings, which encompass streamlined navigation, an upgraded course page, and a revitalized dashboard, kindly explore the resources available on Moodle’s New for Teachers and New for Students pages, or refer to their dedicated YouTube playlist.
Classroom Audio Improvements
In the past year, many larger classrooms and laboratories have undergone the installation of microphones, with more installations planned for the future. These microphones serve to enhance the auditory experience for all participants. Even if you project your voice effectively, the inclusion of microphones can significantly enhance clarity for individuals seated at the rear of the room or those with hearing impairments. The microphone settings have been configured to provide a subtle amplification to your voice. While you might not be actively aware of their operation, students will certainly perceive the difference.
Two distinct types of microphones are in use. Within the Lefavour labs, belt pack microphones are employed, featuring clip-on microphones and a switch on the upper part. Conversely, other classrooms utilize lavalier microphones designed to be worn around the neck. These lavalier microphones activate automatically upon removal from their cradle. All the microphones are equipped with rechargeable batteries, necessitating correct placement in the cradle once their use concludes. Additional information can be accessed through the provided links.
