As our lives continue to become more interconnected, our use of online technology continues to grow. Even when we are not directly connected to the internet, the infrastructure of a worldwide network of computers supports our daily lives and choices. Beyond our typical use of cell phones and computers, we use technology to track many essentials of our daily lives including gaming, nutrition, recreation, shopping, exercise, with devices in our cars, in our homes, and just about everywhere – our last Google search, our last Amazon purchase, etc. Our daily choices have the potential to impact our community as a whole and individually. The reality is our lives are very closely tied to the data that feeds and makes up the internet.
As a community, all of us at UCLA should be individually and collectively responsible to secure the devices and networks we use. Our individual choices have the potential to impact the cyber-safety of our entire UCLA community. We can proactively increase our campus community’s safety by cultivating cybersecure habits consistent with latest security practices and rooted in the willingness to learn and share our knowledge with others. Together we can foster a more safe, resistant, and protected environment.
Report a Cyber Security Crime with the Government
Report a Cyber Security Concern with UCLA
Cyber Security Guidelines for International Travel
International travel presents additional risks related to the theft of sensitive data and exposure to malware that can be harmful while traveling and upon your return.
BEFORE LEAVING...
• Check for encryption import restrictions (e.g., China, Israel, and Russia) and US export control laws
• If allowed, encrypt all information on all devices
• Image the device and backup your data
• Ensure antivirus, security patches, and firewall are enabled and up to date
• Remove all sensitive data and any information that is not needed
WHILE TRAVELING...
• Use loaner laptops and loaner mobile devices whenever possible
• Use VPN to access UCLA resources and approved cloud services (i.e., Box)
• Use a non privileged account and keep track of credentials used so you can change them later
• Use private browsing to prevent credentials from being cached
• Do not plug in untrusted accessories (flash drives, charging cables, memory cards)
• Do not join networks automatically; turn off wireless, Bluetooth, and GPS when not being used
• Assume WiFi is insecure, utilize VPN and Eduroam when possible
UPON RETURN...
• Avoid immediately connecting to personal or business networks
• Wipe the computer, reinstall the operating systems, and restore the applications and data
• Change all credentials used during your travels
For the most up to date information check out: https://www.ociso.ucla.edu/security-best-practices
Security Best Practices
UCLA Information Security Office's website has a lot of helpful information to keep you safe online: