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Student Information

Be Aware

Be Aware

Virginia Tech University has a fairly open network that provides an excellent environment for students to leverage technology in their educational pursuits. As part of this technology environment, students play an important part in protecting sensitive information and computers.

What You Can Do

Computer viruses, phishing scams, and identify theft most likely will never be eliminated. But through awareness, Virginia Tech students do not have to become a victim. Students should develop good habits in using strong passwords, updating operating systems and antivirus software, and using firewalls. Virginia Tech gives its students access to anti-virus software and it should be installed and updated frequently.

Good practices must also include being careful about where you post private information. While offering an opportunity to network, social networking sites offer a unique challenge to privacy. Nothing is ever truly private on the internet and students should be careful when sharing personal information.

Don't Make a Mistake

Virginia Tech’s networks provide fast downloads of media of all types. However students need to be mindful of that downloading copyrighted material is not allowed. Virginia Tech policies are clear with regards to illegal downloads.

Tips

Use strong passwords
Use antivirus software
Use care when opening attachments
Be careful clicking unsolicited links
Never reply to any message of email that asks for your PID, password, account information, or anything else that would be considered sensitive
Never share your password with anyone
Stay current on awareness issues and take opportunities to receive security training