Safe Computing
ATTENTION: Beware of Phishing Scams.
Phishing scams continue to circulate at the University. NEVER give your password to someone who solicits it by email or phone. If you accidentally respond to a phishing message, or you believe that your account has been compromised, please communicate immediately with NSIT Network Security at security@uchicago.edu or 773-702-CERT (773-702-2378).
Visit our Phishing page for more information about phishing scams. You can also look at examples of some of the phishing scams members of the University community have received.
Welcome to the University of Chicago Safe Computing site. As technology becomes central in the everyday life of University students, faculty and staff, it becomes more and more necessary to be aware of the best methods to protect yourself and others from computer-related crimes. To help keep you safe, NSIT is always updating this site with the most recent information and best practices for safe computing.
Take the time to read through these web pages and keep your computer and personal information secure.
Practice Safe Computing: Don't be a victim
- Update Your Operating System: As operating system flaws are discovered, vendors release patches to cover security holes—install these patches regularly to stay secure!
- Protect Your Passwords: Use good password practices to keep your information safe.
- Don't Open Unexpected Attachments: For maximum security, only open expected attachments from people you know.
- Install and Update Antivirus Software: Download the latest antivirus software and make sure its autoupdate feature is turned on to ensure continued protection.
- Use Your Computer's Firewall: Make sure that your computer's firewall is turned on.
- Avoid Email Scams (Phishing): Identify fraudulent emails and immediately delete them.
- Safeguard Your Personal Information: Don't send or post your Social Security Number, bank account number, passwords, or any other private information on the web.
- Remember to Log Out of Web Applications: If you're using a public machine, remember to explicitly log out and quit the browser before you walk away.
- Be careful When Using Wireless Networks: Never use an insecure wireless internet connection (e.g., internet cafe or random connection you pick up) when banking, buying or sending private information over the web.
Practice Safe Computing: Don't be an enabler
- Data Security - Learn about what you can do to keep sensitive data safe.
- Don't share copyrighted material: Read NSIT's File Sharing policy.
- Disable Peer-to-Peer Filesharing: Instructions on how to disable file sharing on the most common peer-to-peer clients.
- Read and follow information technology policies: Read NSIT's Information Technology Policies and related guidelines.
In case of Trouble
- Computer Compromises: What to do if you believe your computer has been compromised.
- Network Harassment and Abuse: Report network harassment or abuse.
Related Topics from Find IT 
- Get help with a compromised computer
- Get safe computing tips
- Learn about browser security
- Learn about data security
- Learn about firewalls
- Learn about good safe computing practices
- Learn about regulated computers
- Learn aout the University's safe computing policy for regulated computers
- Learn about wireless network safety
- Learn how to choose a good password
- Learn how to protect my personal information
- Learn how to protect myself from an email scam
- Learn how to securely store passwords using the password escrow service
- Patch my operating system software
- Protect myself from scammers and network miscreants
- Report Network Stalking or Harassment
- Report that someone has access to my account
- Watch NSIT's data security video
Last updated: 9/4/08