Simple Steps for Safe Computing
This document has been written to assist University personnel in the safe use of computers. We use computers for many functions, examples include completing assessments, reports, communication, and on line services. Safeguarding the computer and the information stored is important, as the loss or theft of information can cause inconvenience and have financial and other consequences.
For more information on IT Security in the University, and IT Security in general, please visit: http://www.infodiv.unimelb.edu.au/it-security/
The graphic below illustrates the simple steps that can be taken for
secure computing. Click on each of the images for more information.
Have a Secure Way of EscapeImportant information assets are the most valuable part of the computing system. Have a means of recovery in the event of a complete system failure or data loss. Thumb drives and diskettes are good options for making portable copies of files. |
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Apply Patches and UpdatesWeaknesses are regularly found in operating systems and applications, and there are more than 500 new viruses discovered every month. Vendors often have web pages and email notification services to announce updates. Check with your software vendor to learn about receiving notifications, and the updates and patches. |
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Be Cautious About What Gets In Only execute or download files that are from known and trustworthy sources, as anti-virus software is not foolproof. Do not open email attachments in unsolicited emails, check with the sender if necessary. Seemingly benign websites can attempt to install malicious software on your computer. Do not click on links provided in unsolicited emails. |
 Action:Be cautious of what you execute on your computer, and the websites you visit. |
Perform Housekeeping and DisinfectionUse a good anti-virus software. Configure it to scan every file accessed through any source, eg Email, Internet, and disks. Occasionally, scan all disks for viruses and file errors. |
Action: Implement immigration, customs, and police-like checks on your computer. |
Use Strong PasswordsPasswords should be easy for you to remember, yet difficult for others to guess. Consider using a phrase, or the initials in a phrase. Strong passwords are typically at least 8 characters long, and include upper and lowercase alphabets, numbers and punctuation marks. Secure your passwords as you would secure your passport or driving license, these are used to authenticate your identity. |
Action: Use strong passwords and keep them confidential. |
Consider Using a FirewallA firewall helps you specify which other computers on the network your computer may communicate with. This will avoid unsolicited connections to your computer. A firewall can also be configured to request for your permission before allowing applications to access the network or Internet. There are free software firewalls available for download via the Internet. A software firewall or hardware firewall device is strongly recommended for network or Internet connections that are active for long periods of time, for example, broadband Internet connections or wireless networks. |
Action: Implement a firewall for greater security. |
Know the Regulations and PoliciesRegulations and policies advise on good computing practices and related issues like copyright. They also protect you from inappropriate actions of others. These documents are available at: |
Action: Be familiar with the Regulations and Policies. |
For more information on IT Security in the University, and IT Security in general, please visit: http://www.infodiv.unimelb.edu.au/it-security/