Training and Awareness

You Don't Have to Wrap It Up to Give It Away.

Tips for Protecting Yourself

• Always use passphrases on your computer.
  • Longer passwords with letters and numbers (and special characters if supported) can help to keep your data safe.

• Lock your computer when you step away.
  • On Windows, press [Windows + L].
  • On Mac, press [Control + Shift + Eject] or [Control + Shift + Power].

• Never share your passwords with anyone.
  • No VCU official or employee will ever ask you for your password.

• Use updated anti-virus and anti-spyware tools, plus a firewall.
  • VCU provides anti-virus software for use on- and off-campus.
  • All widely-available consumer operating systems (Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux) provide built-in firewalls.  Just make sure your firewall is on

• Back your data up.
  • Use a trusted, reputable online storage company, or officially-provided VCU network storage space.
  • Consider encrypting your data.

• Handle information with care.
  • Be careful when handling, transmitting, or storing sensitive or regulated information.

• Think before you click.
  • Be aware of phishing emails and scam websites.
  • If some sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
  • Learn the signs of phishing emails

• Be aware of theft.
  • Lock your doors and keep your personal belongings with you

Check out the latest scams caught by us