Tag Archives: 202308

Welcome Back

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Technology Support Center (TSC) located in MCB Ground Floor A-050

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

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Icon for Moodle

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

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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.

Shure Lapel Mics
Shure Lapel Mics
Extron Lavalier Mics
Extron Lavalier Mics

Information Security and Phishing

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Nearly 20 million students in the US are expected to attend universities this fall. 

This is an exciting time for Simmons as our students, faculty, and staff return for the academic year. Unfortunately, the return to school provides ample opportunities for cybercriminals who wish to take advantage of people during these particularly busy times.

Phishing attacks are once again on the rise, accounting for more than 20% of data breaches in 2021[1]. It is estimated that one in every 99 messages (1.2%)[2] is malicious which equates to nearly 3.4 billion fake emails per day.

Luckily there are some healthy security practices that we all can take to reduce risk:

  • Beware of email messages claiming to be of an urgent nature.
  • Pay attention to the sender of the email message.
  • Look out for fake logos, signatures, or suspicious message contents.
  • Check those URLs; only visit official, reputable websites with encryption.
  • Think twice before clicking links or opening attachments.
  • Protect your passwords and use different passwords for your work, school, and personal accounts.
  • Keep your machine clean. 
  • Make sure that all of your devices, apps, browsers, and antivirus software are up-to-date.
  • Delete sensitive information if you no longer need it.
  • Back-up your files regularly. 

Be mindful of common scams targeting college students, including:

  • Emails that contain “important information about your Simmons account” or a “problem with your registration”
  • Tech Support scams where you get a call about a “problem with your computer”
  • Scholarship scams, textbook rental or book-buying scams.
  • IRS scams demanding money for a fake “federal student tax”
  • Tuition reimbursement or student debt cancellation scams
  • Messages asking for your login information, passwords, or other personal information
  • Fake friend requests, fake login pages, and fake DropBox or Google Docs share notices.

Thank you for your continued cooperation supporting your information security and online safety!  For more information about phishing and Internet scams, as well as ways to identify them, please visit our Phishing and Scams resource page

Please send any questions or concerns to the Technology Service Desk.  

[1] Verizon 2021 Data Breach Investigations Report (https://www.verizon.com/business/resources/reports/dbir/)
[2] Valimail Email Fraud Landscape Spring 2019 Report (https://valimail.docsend.com/view/qndhuhn)

Listserv Migration to Google Groups

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In the upcoming weeks, we will be undergoing a transition of email list operations from our current listserv service to Google Groups. During this shift, all current functionalities will remain intact and will largely remain transparent to those sending and receiving list-based messages.  This change will bring forth streamlined management, a seamlessly integrated experience with other Google applications, and contemporary features. In due course, instructions outlining the transition process will be communicated to list owners and managers, ensuring a smooth and informed migration.