Proper security requires a higher level of technical knowledge than ever before. Simply connecting to a high speed network poses many threats
that all computer users must be aware of. At the same time, a rapid increase in information security attacks targeting healthcare organizations and wider HIPAA regulations in regards to Electronic Patient Health Information mean that it's more important than ever to make sure you understand and are taking the proper steps to protect your computer and its data.
We've created a number of resources to help you better understand what you can do to keep
your computer and data as safe as possible. The list below provides descriptions of each individual topic that is also linked on the left of our Safe Computing pages. Be sure to review the Email Security and Backing Up Your Computer pages for information specific to data protection procedures. If you are not taking correct security precautions to keep work and research related data safe then you, your department and CUMC can be held fully liable.
Operating System and Software Updates - all vendors release patches and upgrades for their operating systems and software that can prevent problems on your computer.
Password Use - tips and best practices for picking a strong password and
keeping track of all of the passwords you have to remember.
Physical Security - don't forget to keep your computer itself secure! Columbia
offers many great resources for free or discounted pricing to assist with this.
Email Security - from spam to phishing to viruses, email is still the most
perplexing program to use. Learn how to cut back on the email frustration factor.
Viruses and Spyware - find out how to protect your computer from today's most
malicious programs.
Backing Up Your Computer - the most important thing about your computer is the
work you do on it. Here you can find the easiest and most secure ways to back up your data.
Using a Firewall - we recommend that any computer connecting to a high speed
network use a software firewall for extra protection.
Risky practices - using file sharing programs and "free" software can often lead to
security issues, know what you're agreeing to before you decide to take these risks.
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