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  1. IT Services
  2. Cyber Security
  3. Information Security
  4. 10 Key Cyber Security Tips

10 Key Cyber Security Tips

  1. Use a strong password, ensuring that your QMUL password is different to any passwords used for personal accounts. The National Cyber Security Centre recommends that you combine three random words to create a password that’s ‘long enough and strong enough’ https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/top-tips-for-staying-secure-online/three-random-words
  2. Use a password manager to help store your passwords and create new secure passwords. For further guidance please visit https://www.its.qmul.ac.uk/cybersecurity/information-security/password-managers/ 
  3. Use the SLAM method to help spot suspicious emails:
    •    Sender: check the sender’s email address
    •    Links: Hover and check any links before clicking
    •    Attachments: Don’t open attachments from someone you don’t know or attachments you weren’t expecting
    •    Message: Check the content of the message and keep an eye out for bad grammar or mistakes
  4. Update all devices and apps so that all fixes and security updates are applied as soon as possible.
  5. Lock your computer when leaving your desk to ensure that any personal or sensitive information can not be viewed or tampered with.
  6. Protect and lock away paper files with sensitive data so that only people that need to access the information have sight of it.
  7. Be aware of what information you’re sharing on social media so that cyber threat actors cannot use the information in a phishing attack.
  8. Use a VPN when connecting to public wifi and avoid accessing sensitive information as public wifi has less security controls. Visit the NCSC guidance on VPNs for further information - https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/device-security-guidance/infrastructure/virtual-private-networks
  9. Enable Multi Factor Authentication where you can on your social media and other accounts (such as paypal, amazon and other online shopping sites).
  10. If you see something, say something! If you notice anything suspicious contact the IT Service desk using one of the following methods:
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