Security

It is very important that a student maintain the security of one's computer and personal information. Poor security in a computer system will usually result in the computer performing slower than normal. In some cases this may be a minor inconvenience but often it can hinder a student's ability to complete coursework on the computer and may potentially cost hundreds of dollars if the system must be repaired by a professional computer technician.

A poorly maintained computer system impacts the entire Troy Campus community. A single computer infected with malware can broadcast large amounts of data unbeknownst to the student. Such broadcasts may potentially render the student network inoperable, thus inconveniencing many other students. An infected computer can also spread a worm across the network to other student computers, thus increasing the scope of the problem.

Updated software, as mentioned in the Software page helps prevents such attacks. However, in this age of information there are other forms of attack that may not negatively impact a student's computer, but could impact one in other ways. Identity theft on the Internet has increased each year and this form of fraud is sometimes carried out through the use of malware that collects a persons information from one's own computer and sends it to someone else across the Internet.

With proper software maintenance a student can greatly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft. A student's computer, however, is not the only way personal information could be stolen.

Included below are several helpful tips for students to follow in order to keep their information secure:

• Do not share your passwords with anyone.
• Always log out of Web based services. This includes services provided by third-parties not affiliated with the university such as a student's on-line banking or other e-mail accounts.
• Ask for identification. When Information Technology staff assist students on campus they carry photo IDs that identify who they are and where they work.
• Never send your Social Security Number or credit card information via e-mail.
• Require a password to login to your personal computer. This will help prevent access to your computer over the network and also keep strangers from using your computer without your permission.
• Log out of your computer or shut it down when it is not in use or when you will be away from it for an extended period of time.
• Carry your Trojan Card with you at all times.