Tag Archives: Information Security

Important Sharkpass/Duo Changes

May 17, 2022TechNews202205, Duo, Information Security, SharkPassito0

Icon of No Phone Simmons uses SharkPass to provide an additional layer of security for our Simmons login. In recent years, SMS passcodes, Duo Mobile Passcodes, and Telephone voice call verification have become avenues for scammers to steal login credentials.

On July 11, 2022, Technology will disable the use of SMS passcodes, Duo Mobile passcodes, and telephone voice calls as authentication methods for SharkPass. Users authenticating using their Simmons Account credentials after this date must use a Duo Push to their mobile device, or an approved security token.

The Duo Push is the preferred authentication method for Sharkpass/Duo as it offers an easy-to-use and seamless experience for the community in addition to increased security.

To avoid any potential service disruptions, be sure to enroll and begin to use your Duo Push-enabled smartphone or mobile device to be used with SharkPass. Instructions may be found at the SharkPass Information website.

What if I don’t have a cell phone or mobile device?

If you do not have a cell phone that is compatible with the Duo Push, you may be eligible for a free two-step verification hardware token. Please contact the Service Desk, at 617-521-2222.

These changes are a part of Simmons’ continual efforts to make our systems more secure. Please be on the lookout for future communications describing improvements to this service.

Password Reset

May 17, 2022TechNews202205, Information Security, Password, Password Resetito0

Icon for Password Reset Simmons Technology is requiring a mandatory password change for all members of the community. Regularly changing your password is a necessary step toward keeping Simmons and your personal information secure.

When you update your password, you will also be required to review and acknowledge our Information Security Policy and Acceptable Use Policy.

You can find instructions for changing your password on the Service Desk website.

Please reset your password by July 11, 2022 to avoid any disruption accessing your Simmons account. Please contact the Technology Service Desk for more information or assistance.

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Ongoing Security Concerns

January 25, 2022Special News, TechNews202201, Cybersecurity, Information Securityito0

Many institutions of higher learning are falling prey to an increasing number of phishing attacks. Simmons is no exception. Phishing attacks have soared 220%¹ since the beginning of the pandemic. Despite our active monitoring efforts and alerts to the community, too many of us still fall victim. Breaches of Simmons login credentials this month have resulted in compromised computers used to send even more phishing messages and most recently unlawful access to Workday where banking information was exposed and in one case changed. Giving up your password to a phishing site has serious consequences.

¹https://www.f5.com/company/news/features/phishing-attacks-soar-220–during-covid-19-peak-as-cybercriminal

Phishing and Imposter Websites

January 25, 2022Special News, TechNews202201, Cybersecurity, idp.simmons.edu, Information Securityito0

Cybercriminals are adept at creating imposter websites that look like standard login pages for Google, Microsoft Live, and even Simmons’ own login page. Simmons login page url will always begin with “idp.simmons.edu” and any other url even if it contains “simmons.edu” later in the text is not our login page.

Make sure URL containing idp.simmons.edu before you proceed with username and password — **Any** other site is not Simmons login page.