Cybersafe Remote Learning & Working
Remote learning and work has increased the number of people using computers at home to do everything from viewing pirated videos, to gaming, and accessing their university accounts.
Cybersafety is often about what you know and what you do before a breach, so we’re sharing a few basics to take charge of your cybersafety wherever you are.
Practice safe browsing
Every browser offers something different. Get online more securely by choosing a browser that offers a level of security you’re comfortable with and the unique convenience features you want.
Between the top five most popular browsers Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera and Safari, you can decide which browser is best (external link) with the help of an analysis completed by PCMag.com.
Unless logging in to a well-trusted site like my.ryerson.ca, use a browser’s “private browsing” mode to minimize risk. Private modes will never prompt you to remember logins or passwords, or retain information from your session once you close it.
- Private browsing or ‘Incognito’ mode creates a temporary session that is isolated from a browser’s main session.
- This means that your searches, visited pages, login details and cookies will not be saved on the device after you close your browser window.
- Although private browsing mode deletes cookies and search histories when you close the window, it does not hide your traffic from third-parties including:
- internet service providers (ISPs)’
- government officials;
- network admin at your school or place of work.
- Private browsing also does not secure your traffic from being exploited by hackers, attacks or security vulnerabilities.
- While effective for ensuring sensitive data such as passwords or credit card numbers are not saved, note that any risks inherent associated with less secure choices remain even when using private browsing mode.
Five actions you can take to stay cybersafe
The way you interact with browsers and computers can also make a difference in keeping your personal information and online activity private. Here are some things to think about:
Smart habits for privacy
- Log off or shut down completely when you leave your device for the day.
- Set your computer's power options to prompt for a password upon resuming from sleep or standby.
Lock before you leave
If you’re working in a public area like an open office or the library, do not leave laptops unattended without being physically secured as they are frequently stolen.
Even if it’s secured and you must leave your computer unattended, remember to lock the screen. This helps prevent opportunities for others to expose your confidential information from logging in to your personal accounts like banking or email if you’ve saved the passwords.
Setting up automatic OS updates on your computer and mobile devices is one of the most effective ways to protect your files and data. OS updates often include patches and fixes for vulnerabilities that can leave you susceptible to attacks by malicious actors interested in exploiting security flaws.
Access instructions for enabling automatic OS updates on your devices.
Antivirus software are programs you can install on your computer, cellphone or tablet to detect, block and protect your devices from viruses and malware. By installing these programs and configuring them to scan your devices daily and automatically download updates, you can help protect your sensitive files and data.
While major OS manufacturers provide free, built-in antivirus software that comes pre-installed on your devices, they may not be enough to protect your devices from emerging cybersecurity threats. That’s why TMU provides free antivirus software to community members.
Learn more about selecting the best antivirus software for you.
Two-factor authentication is a security process that requires two verification methods when logging into your TMU account, adding an extra layer of protection: To log in to an account with 2FA enabled, you’ll need:
- Something you know (your password)
- Something physical (your mobile device or a security key)
By requiring both a password and a physical item in your possession, 2FA can help prevent hackers from accessing your TMU account.
Please note that all students, faculty and staff are required to use 2FA to access university resources like Gmail, D2L Brightspace and Library eResources.
If you haven’t done so already, access instructions for setting up 2FA on your TMU account.
Time is of the essence if your computer or device has been infected with a virus or ransomware. By acting quickly, not only will you be protecting your own files and data, but you can help prevent other devices from being compromised as well.
In the event you’re the victim of a ransomware attack or breach, complete the following three steps immediately:
- Disconnect your device from the internet to prevent the ransomware from spreading further.
- Take a screenshot of the breach to help a CCS staff member or technician to identify the ransomware or virus.
- Restore your device to a safe state and recover your data with the help of CCS or a computer repair expert.
Learn more about what to do in the event of a ransomware attack.