Privacy & Security

Keeping your devices, accounts, and personal information safe is important. Using best practices for cyber security and protecting your files are important habits to build.

Security & Privacy Tips

Click each best practice to read about how you can keep your identity, data, and files safe.

Create Strong, Unique Passwords

It is crucial to not use the same password across multiple accounts. Doing so endangers any account with the same password if one is breached. Instead, use a unique password for each account and consider using a passphrase of at least 13 characters, which is a sequence of words or a sentence that is easy for you to remember but hard to guess.

Utilize Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Widener requires MFA to be used for any access to Microsoft through your Widener account when not on the wu-secure internet network. It is recommended to set up multi-factor authentication (or sometimes called two-factor authentication) for other accounts where available to keep your information secure. Learn more about MFA.

Monitor Your Accounts

When available, opt into notifications of suspicious activity, new log ins, or changes to your account. Many platforms offer these types of notifications.

Manage Privacy Settings

Regularly review and adjust your privacy settings for the various accounts you have as policies and settings are updated. Be proactive about understanding what information you are sharing on different platforms and what settings you can adjust to protect yourself.

Beware of Phishing Scams

Be mindful of any e-mail that requests personal information or requires you to click a link. Check the e-mail address and if necessary, verify the identity of the sender. It is important to never share any log in credentials, sensitive personal information, or financial information via e-mail. If you suspect an e-mail is a phishing attempt, Microsoft Outlook (as well as most other platforms) have the option to report the e-mail.

Use Secure Internet Connections

Public wi-fi networks can be easily intercepted by attackers. It is important to use a secure connection when available. While on campus, connect to wu-secure rather than wu-guest network. If using a public network is unavoidable, do not access any sensitive information or financial accounts.

Regularly Update Browsers

Updating your internet browsers as new updates are available is another way of keeping your information secure. Browser updates often include additional security measures to keep up with the continuously evolving cybersecurity threats.

Back Up Your Files

In addition to keeping your identity and accounts secure, it’s also important to keep your files safe. Back up your files on a secure cloud, another physical device, or both in case anything happens to your computer. With your Widener account, you have access to OneDrive, a secure cloud you can back up your files to.