Welcome back to the Spring 2026 semester! As you dive back into your studies, it’s a great time to ensure your technology is secure and ready to go. Here are some easy steps to help you get started.
Complete Your Security Training: Spend about 20 minutes on the mandatory tutorial, Information Security at Penn: A Practical Guide. Finish it by January 12, 2026. You can find the course online here.
Craft a Strong Password or Passphrase: If you need to reset your password, make it at least 16 characters long. A good idea is to use a memorable phrase, like “Eat Healthy 3$Daily”. You can also use Dashlane, a free password manager from the University.
Update Your Devices: If you didn’t use your computer or phone during winter break, check for any updates you might have missed. Keeping your system up-to-date is key to safeguarding your data.
Restart Regularly: A simple restart can do wonders! It clears out temporary files, applies updates, and refreshes your device’s performance.
Secure Your Data: Take a moment to go through your files. Delete what you don’t need and make sure any important information is stored securely and encrypted according to University guidelines. A bit of housekeeping now can save you trouble later.
With technology, little steps can make a big difference. Remember, staying safe online is not just about security training; it’s about creating good habits too.
Did you know that according to a recent survey by the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), almost 70% of users have experienced data breaches due to weak passwords? This highlights the importance of using strong passphrases.
So, as you gear up for the semester, take these steps seriously. It’s all about keeping your digital world secure. Welcome back, and here’s to a successful semester!
For more information on data risk classification and additional tech help, visit this link and this link.
Stay safe and enjoy your studies!
