Information Security

Everyone is a target

Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. Remaining vigilant and using caution while using our devices protects you and the University of Akron.

The University of Akron will NEVER ask you for your password via any method of communication.

Beware of suspicious emails, texts and phone calls

Phishing attacks can be carried out via nearly any form of communication: phone call, text, email, social networking sites, etc.

• Question if the message makes sense.
• Question if the sender is really the sender.
• Question if the message is too good to be true.
• Question if the message is invoking a sense of urgency.

Do not open attached files unless you trust the sender.

Utilize Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) whenever possible

NEVER Approve MFA requests when you are not actively trying to login. Report unexpected MFA requests you receive in the Microsoft Authenticator app or by emailing security@uakron.edu.

MFA is required on your University of Akron account, we also recommended using MFA to protect other, personal accounts.

Practice good password management

NEVER reuse passwords on multiple accounts. It can be difficult to remember unique, strong passwords for every online account, so we recommend utilizing a password manager.

Password managers can help you create and securely store unique passwords for each account. They can also allow you to check if any passwords you are currently using are insecure.

University of Akron recommended password managers include: Bitwarden, iCloud Keychain and Google Password Manager.

Mobile device safety

Ensure you have a screen lock setup on your device with a PIN / password or biometric authentication. Always lock your device when not in use.

Turn on automatic updates for your device and applications.

Ensure Find my iPhone or Find my Device are enabled.

Protect your data

Back up critical files to secure locations. Always have more than 1 backup in case of unexpected data loss. Secure locations can include external hard drives that are disconnected / stored securely when not actively backing up as well as cloud providers such as Backblaze.

Utilize encryption when storing or transmitting sensitive data.

Securely remove files containing sensitive information once they are no longer needed.

Personal computer security

Only install programs from trusted sources, avoid visiting unknown websites.

Ensure built-in anti-malware is installed, enabled and updated on both Windows, MacOS and Chrome OS devices.

Do not store sensitive University of Akron information on personal devices.

Always lock your computer when you’re not using it.