Information Security

Computer security threats have existed in one form or another for over 20 years, and they are not likely to disappear any time soon.  Cyber attacks can render your computer unusable, remove/alter system security, result in loss of data or identity theft, and allow others to use your computer for internet attacks or fraud.  You can be infected from many different sources including clicking on links in email messages, email attachments, downloaded files (especially from file-sharing sites), and from compromised websites.

Technology Services uses and recommends a layered approach to protecting against security threats:

  1. All Lawrence University incoming and outgoing email attachments are scanned for known threats. Each message is scanned and, if a threat is found, modified to remove the threat and replace it with a warning message to the recipient.  If a message looks suspicious a warning may be added to the subject line.  Be VERY careful with messages and attachments if there is a Possible Fraud or other warning in the subject line.
  2. Lawrence maintains a next generation firewall that monitors and blocks known threats.
  3. All Lawrence University-owned computers have security software installed and updated on a regular basis.  You should maintain security software on your own devices.
  4. Lawrence University file server systems have security software installed.
  5. All computers registered on the Lawrence network are required to have security software.
  6. Lawrence University provides Information Security Awareness training for faculty, staff and student employees.

Information Security Awareness Training

The online Security Awareness training takes about 45 minutes to complete and consists of a series of videos with questions at the end.   Your progress and completion of the training will be automatically recorded.  This training is delivered using Moodle, the campus learning management system.

• Complete the online Security Awareness training by going to http://go.lawrence.edu/bhdp
• Login using your Network/Email username and password.

Recommended Security and Anti-Virus Software

Lawrence University requires that all computers connected to the campus network have current Security & Anti-virus software installed.  There are free versions available including Sophos (for Mac) and Security Essentials & Windows Defender (for Windows).  The Sophos or Microsoft options are not required!  You may choose to use any well known anti-virus software you wish.

For instructions see: http://www.lawrence.edu/info/offices/technology_services/Services/security-and-anti-virus