Computer Security Updates

Welcome to the 1st TechNews!

TechNews will be periodically distributed to provide insights into our ever-growing relationship with technology. We will shed light on various technological topics, provide information, updates and improvements being implemented by Southern’s IT department, provide some deep-dives into important technologies and much more.

Campus announcements addressed security exploits and touched on the importance of keeping our computing devices up to date. However, security exploits are not exclusive to any single platform or product; all devices could be susceptible to various types of vulnerabilities. Everyone must be vigilant in frequently checking for and applying available updates to the computer’s operating system and installed applications. Doing so not only protects your sensitive information, but potentially others in your organization as well.

How do devices and accounts become compromised?

Viruses, Spyware, Adware, Worms, Ransomware, Trojan Horses, etc. are just a few ways your devices and/or accounts can become compromised. Hackers can gain access to files, passwords, and even spread throughout a network to other systems. Updating your computer software is an effective way to combat these vulnerabilities. Common actions that lead to this occurring include:

• Downloading misleading and infected email attachments.
• Clicking links to malicious websites.
• Systems and applications not being updated frequently, therefore leaving backdoors and loopholes open for hackers to exploit.
• Phishing attempts – which trick users into providing sensitive information by mimicking as though they are coming from within your organization.

Will my University-issued computer automatically update itself?

University-issued computers are configured to have critical updates applied in various ways, and have non-essential updates available to install at the users’ convenience. Critical updates can be applied manually at a time that is convenient to you, otherwise, it will automatically install during a “maintenance window” between the hours of 12am-6am. This maintenance window was chosen to avoid impacting work-day functions.

• Windows: Critical updates are available via the “Software Center” application. Connect to the GlobalProtect VPN if working remotely.

Non-essential Windows updates are available via Settings - Updates & Security.

• Mac: Critical updates are available via the “Self Service” application.

Non-essential Mac updates will also be available within “Self Service” and the “App Store” applications.

*See below Easy Access Instructional Guides for tutorials on how to update your Windows or Mac Computers.

How often should I update my computer?

Updates should be performed at least once a month. This will ensure your computer is functioning as best and securely as possible.

What about my personal devices?

Although we do not service personal devices, we do recommend users check for and apply available updates on a frequent basis.

Easy Access Instructional Guides:

To assist with performing updates, we have compiled our current set of instructional guides on how to keep your devices up to date with the latest software to ensure the best user experience and protection of your data:

• Apple MacBook & iMac – Updating OS: VIDEO PDF
• Apple iPhone & iPad – Updating iOS: VIDEO PDF
• Windows Computer– Installing Updates: VIDEO PDF

Updating individual applications:

Although many applications will auto-update, here is how to manually update some common applications:

• Google Chrome
• Microsoft Teams
• Firefox
• WebEx
• Zoom