As more university employees work remotely, it’s more important than ever that we all take steps to keep ourselves and the university safe and secure. Here are some tips to keep in mind while working remotely:

• Avoid Phishing – Many organizations have reported seeing an increase in phishing and malware emails that specifically target remote workers. Be vigilant and follow best practices when using email. You can report any suspicious email using the “Report Message” button in Outlook or forwarding it to InformationSecurity@missouristate.edu.
• Ensure Your Computer is Up to Date – If you are using a personal device for university work, it is critical that you keep it up to date. If you are using a recent version of Windows, you can ensure your computer is up to date by clicking on the start button in the lower left-hand corner of your screen, typing Update, then selecting “Check for Updates.”
• Be Careful When Using Remote Meeting Tools – Tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams are great for remote work, but there are some things to watch out for. You might receive phishing emails specifically designed to mimic meeting invitations from these tools. In addition, you should avoid posting links to your meetings in public locations because some internet trolls have recently entered video meetings posted on social media sites and displayed inappropriate content.

The Information Security Office is here to help you stay safe, whether you’re working remotely or on-campus. If you have any questions or concerns, you can reach us by email at InformationSecurity@missouristate.edu or by phone at 417-836-8391.