Internet Security

Internet Safety

In an increasingly technical world, it is important to know how to keep yourself and your information safe when using technology. The best way to ensure internet safety is to be informed and alert. 

Passwords

Keeping your passwords secure is your first line of defense. 

1. Don't share your passwords with anyone, write them down, or leave them in an unsecure location.
2. Use different passwords for different accounts. Make sure you don't use the same password for all your accounts (e.g. online banking, amazon, bethel IAM).
3. Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols and make sure to avoid common words and personal information.
4. If, for any reason, you suspect that your Bethel password may have been compromised, change your password immediately.

Phishing

What is Phishing?

Phishing is the theft of passwords or account information by those posing as a legitimate organization. Most often phishing scams come in the form of an email that looks like it came from a trusted source, such as Bethel IT, or a bank or financial institution. 

The email will often ask you to click a link and update account information. Some of these emails look very real and it would be easy to be tricked into thinking they came from a reliable sender. However, this is how scammers can gain access to your information and accounts.

How do I protect myself?

The best way to protect yourself is to be suspicious. No legitimate organization, including Bethel ITS, will ever ask for account or personal information over email.

If you ever get an email that requests this information, disregard it and instead go to the organization's website using the address you know to see if account information needs to be updated.

Malware

What is Malware?

Malware (malicious software) is viruses or spyware that gets installed on your computer or mobile device without your knowledge.

Malware is used to gather private information, display unwanted pop-ups or advertising, or otherwise interrupt the normal function of your computer. Malware can get on your computer when you click on links or download software from untrustworthy sources.

What can I do about Malware?

You can protect yourself by keeping your security software updated on your computer, by not clicking on suspicious links, by avoiding free downloads, and by being cautious of pop-ups.

If you suspect you may have malware on your Bethel computer contact the Help Desk at 651.638.6500 or helpdesk@bethel.edu. For malware on your personal computer follow the instructions found here.

Additional Safety Tips

1. Be aware of your surroundings when using technology in a public place, especially when doing online banking or shopping. Be mindful of those around you and notice if they are watching you type in your login information.
2. Always log off of public computers after you are done.
3. Check out our confluence page for more information.

For more information on how to keep yourself and your information and possessions safe, check out this video here.