As part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, brought to you by CU’s Office of Information Security (OIS), we will share a way to enhance your security every week in October. This week, we are highlighting how to secure and protect your information on smart devices.

Smart devices provide convenience, but they can also come with security vulnerabilities that put your privacy and sensitive information at risk. Reported incidents include eavesdropping, harassment and theft. Take these actions to help keep your devices secure:  

• Do your homework. Before purchasing a smart device, consider only those from reputable manufacturers and conduct research to learn about any privacy or security concerns.
• Secure access. Use encryption and change the default password to one that is complex and unique. Engage multi-factor authentication where possible.
• Use separate networks. Maintain a network for smart devices only. Keep sensitive information on a separate network.
• Check default permissions. For each device you install, review privacy settings to make sure you’re only sharing what you’re comfortable with.
• Share minimal personal information with smart devices. Don’t share financial information, such as banking details.
• Maintain your devices. Keep the software on all devices and apps up to date. If automatic updates are available, turn them on.

Read more about security on smart devices here.

Learn more about Cybersecurity month and the webinar featuring an FBI Chief Security Officer, cybersecurity quiz and prize drawing, and more on OIS's website.