Tips for Students

Photo of Students and Computers

Resources

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Download a PDF version of these tips and resources

Security Resources

Windows

 Mac OS/X 

Other 

Appalachian Resources

support.appstate.edu/students for free antivirus software, and other support information for students

security.appstate.edu/phishing lists reported phishing attempts

Our Technology Support Center  can troubleshoot problems, and remove virus and spyware from your devices.

See something suspicious? Report issues promptly - call the ITS Help Desk at 828-262-6266

Tips for Students

Stop

  • Review your Social Media Privacy settings - customize your privacy settings and think about what you share. Be careful talking about your location, and anything that you wouldn't want Grandma - or a future employer - to see.
  • Don't link your social media accounts together - one hacked account gives the hacker access to all linked accounts.
  • Be aware of online scams - don't get lured by phishing! Report attempts to get your username, password, or other personal information to phish@appstate.edu.
  • Log Out before you walk away from a public computer - log out of your MountaineerApps account and the public computer.

Think

  • Use Good Passwords and Keep them Safe:
    • Use unique passwords - with letters, numbers, and symbols - for each account. If you need help remembering your passwords, use a password vault like KeePass.
    • Don't share your password, and never enter your password on a website without making sure you are in the right place - appstate.com might be a trick to look like appstate.edu! Appalachian ITS will never ask for your password!
  • Keep clean machines:
    • Make sure your device and software are set to install regular updates and use Antivirus software.
  • Back up your files with an external device and/or Mountaineer Drive.

Connect Safely

  • Use a secure wireless connection, like "asu" wireless network, or be aware that you are on a public connection when you connect to public wireless.
  • Use https whenever you transmit confidential information to a website.
  • Be careful where you click:
    • Use official sites like Google Play Store to download apps, and review what they want to access.
    • Don't open questionable email attachments or click on ads on websites.