Guides @ UF: Library Technology Services: Secure Computing

Secure Computing Tips

In today's digital world, secure computing isn't just an option, it's a necessassary job for everyone. From our personal finances to national security, everything relies on computers and networks, making them prime targets for malicious attacks. Here's a quick overview of how to ensure the security of your data.

5 tips for Secure computing

Avoid interacting with phishing and suspicious emails
Be cautious when receiving unexpected emails or messages. Don't click suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources
Lock your computer! Use The Windows Key + L
Never leave devices logged in or unattended. Manually locking your screen helps prevent others from viewing or using your data when you're not around.
Backup data to cloud storage
Using Cloud storage enables you to keep and recover data no matter what happens to your hardware or physical device - OneDrive, Dropbox, etc
Update your devices
Regularly update laptops and personal devices.
Updates patch security flaws, installs new features, and improves performance
Ensure your devices are safeguarded by using antivirus software.
If you’re on campus, you can utilize Windows Defender (See below) for this purpose. This is built into Windows OS and you can run it from settings if you are ever concerned you may have a virus. This helps in identifying and warding off malware.

Windows Defender Scan

How to Start a Windows Defender Scan

From the Windows start menu open Settings

On the left side pane select Privacy & Security, this will be located near the bottom

Then select Windows Security on the right-hand side

Select Open Windows Security

A new window will open, select Virus & threat protection on the left-hand side

On the right-hand side select Scan options

Then select Full scan then scan now, it is highly recommended always doing a full scan or Microsoft Defender Antivirus versus the other scan options.