Working from home during the current COVID-19 pandemic is creating additional cyber security risks that all staff need to be aware of as we come to terms with working in new and different ways, getting to grips with new tools, applications and ways of teaching, learning and collaborating.
The University has seen a growth in cyber security threats via email. Staff need to be vigilant and aware of these threats, many of which are using COVID-19 as a way to attract attention and get you to divulge your log on credentials, i.e. user name and password.
Please follow the following guidance to keep yourself safe online:
- Don’t be pressured by emails or clicking on links demanding you change your password, or asking for bank details, payment or other details. Cyber criminals will use anything to prey on your fears to trick you into clicking on a bad link
- If in doubt, delete the email. Do not click on the links. Do not enter your password or other credentials
- Protect any PC or device you use to connect to the internet or to University systems with up-to-date and patched operating systems (e.g. Windows 10) and anti-virus software. You can install the University provided anti-virus software https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/csd/security/computer-security/antivirus-software/
If you have already clicked – do not panic. You can take several practical steps:
- Contact CSD Service Desk via the self-service portal https://servicedesk.liverpool.ac.uk
- If you’ve been tricked into providing your password, change your passwords on all your other accounts, including University and personal accounts like banking etc.
Remember; Computing Services will never email you asking for your password.