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Digital Armor: Essential Security Tools for Protecting Your Devices

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The link to the quiz is at the end of the article. 

UCSF Security Suite 

Did you know you can use UCSF’s top-notch security software on your personal devices or those not centrally supported? This is the same powerful protection that UCSF deploys to safeguard data, networks, and computer systems. For those devices supported by UCSF IT Field Services (ITFS), this robust software is installed automatically on computers, laptops, and other endpoints to ensure maximum security. 

Since many in the UCSF community use personal or non-ITFS-supported devices, we have made the security tools available for download.  If you use your device for UCSF business, you must install these tools to adhere to UCSF Minimum Security Standards. You can check if the tools are installed on your device by comparing your application icons to those listed on the software download page (MyAccess login required).  

Phish Alarm 

Phish Alarm is another excellent security tool. Users can report a phish or malicious email message with the click of a button. 

The “Report Phish” button is available for Windows and Macintosh Outlook clients, Outlook on the Web, and Outlook on your mobile device. Users can find more information on the Phish Alarm Service Page. This makes reporting phishing attempts easier and more efficient for everyone. 

UCSF Password Management Tool 

UCSF also provides the Password Management Tool to help everyone properly manage their UCSF Active Directory password. It gives users the ability to: 

To learn more, visit the Password Management Tool Enrollment & Login Service Page. 

Keeper 

UCSF also offers the Keeper Password Manager free to all faculty, staff, and students. Password managers provide: 

  • Enhanced Security: Password managers create and store complex, unique passwords for each account, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. 

  • Convenience: They store all passwords in one place, accessible with a single master password, eliminating the need to remember multiple passwords. 

  • Automatic Generation: Password managers generate strong, random passwords that meet security standards, ensuring each password is unique. 

  • Cross-Device Access: They synchronize across devices, allowing you to access your passwords from smartphones, tablets, and computers. 

  • Secure Storage: Besides passwords, they can store sensitive information like credit card details and secure notes, enhancing overall data protection. 

  • Phishing Protection: They autofill credentials only on legitimate websites, reducing the risk of phishing attacks. 

Once you have signed up for a UCSF account, Keeper offers you an additional personal or family account for free. Click here to stay protected and sign up today! 

Personal Devices That Are Not Used for UCSF Business 

You likely have some devices you do not use for UCSF business, like your home wi-fi router, network-connected printers, smart televisions, and kitchen appliances. Be sure to read the manuals and take advantage of the security features and tools provided. Also, at a minimum: 

  • Always change the original factory (default) password to your own. Passwords should be “complex,” i.e., contain a combination of upper/lower case letters, numbers & special characters. It should also be “long” in terms of the number of characters.  Both attributes make for a strong password that is harder to break. 
  • Don't write down passwords. Change passwords regularly or when a compromise is suspected or confirmed. Bolster password security by using multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. Don’t ever share your passwords or divulge when asked over the phone. 

  • Even better: use a password manager (like UCSF's Keeper) to help create complex passwords and store your work and/or personal passwords.  

  • Download and install all patches and software updates to ensure known security vulnerabilities are remediated.  

  • Encrypt the data on your device if the data is confidential or otherwise sensitive. 
  • Install and maintain anti-virus software. 
  • Install and maintain a firewall.  
  • Back up your data.  

The Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has many articles to help you keep your non-UCSF devices secure. Here are a few examples:  

Take the IT Security Tools Quiz.  Everyone who passes is entered to win one of six $50 Amazon Gift Cards. 

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