Security Awareness                                 

In today's current information technology environment, information security is greatly dependent on each user's awareness and behavior.  The common saying that "security is everyone's responsibility" is especially true when it comes to information security.  Security is the responsibility of all members of the University community.   

What is the purpose of security awareness?

The purpose of awareness is to focus attention on security, creating sensitivity to the threats and vulnerabilities of computer systems and recognition of the need to protect data, information and systems.

What are some of the threats to information security?

• Password guessing
• Accidental disclosure of confidential information
• Misuse of systems or networks
• Abuse of system privileges
• Social engineering
• Malicious viruses, worms and Trojan horses from emails and downloaded files
• Theft of mobile devices (laptops, PDAs) that contain confidential information

Why is security awareness training needed?

It is important for students, faculty and staff to understand the importance of IT security and to ensure that each individual understands their responsibilities.  In order to do our jobs, we must have information available when we need it.  It must be accurate, and we must know the steps needed to safeguard its confidentiality when necessary.  To be truly effective, everyone must do his or her part to secure the information environment.

To help learn more about security, an online security awareness tutorial is now available covering a wide range of security topics.  Because the tutorial is licensed by a third party provider, users will be required to enter in their MU ID and password to access the information.  

Security Awareness Tutorial

Scheduling an Security Awareness Session for your Department

If you would like the University Information Security Office to come to your department to present basic security best practices, click here to access and complete the security awareness request form. 

Miami University Security Awareness Handbook and Tip Card

Security Awareness "Rules of the Road" handbook (PDF)

Protect Your Personal Information tip card (PDF)

Miami University Security Awareness Videos

"Self Defense For Your Computer"

"Student On the Street Interview"

Informational Security Links:

Microsoft Security Newsletter

Check current alerts and vulnerability resources:  US-CERT  

Videos and Tutorials by OnGuardOnline.gov

Protect Your Identify - Types of Fraud 

U.S. Security Awareness - Computer Security

FTC's Identity Theft site

Anti-Phishing Working Group

CA Spyware Information Center

Privacy Rights Clearinghouse

 

Report an Incident

Information or network security incidents should be reported immediately to the Support Desk at (513) 529-7900, or email: ithelp@muohio.edu