As a staff, you are responsible for protecting critical school information and ensuring safe online practices when browsing online.
Here is a comprehensive safety guide to help you keep informed.
Passwords
Strong password - Lock your online accounts, computer, phone, and other devices with passwords of at least eight characters (longer is better), and include upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols.
Two-factor authentication - Turn on and use Two-factor authentication whenever available to create an added layer of security. Make use of authentication apps where possible.
Keep passwords secret - Don't write down, save or disclose your passwords and pins to coworkers or businesses. Refrain from using the same password for all your accounts.
Internet
Click smart - Before clicking on a link, hover your mouse over the link and check the dialogue window that appears. Make sure the link in the window matches the link you are about to click.
Be wary of popups - Some popups contain viruses which can be triggered by clicks.
Avoid suspicious content - Avoid websites that contain questionable content such as illegal downloads, sexual content, free prizes, etc.
Don't enter information - Never enter any information into online forms unless they're from a trusted site. Sites may phish your personal information using fake forms (e.g. registration forms, subscription opt-ins)
Defend your computer - Keep all software current (including your web browser) with automatic updates and install all security updates that your IT department recommends. Use antivirus, antispam, and antispyware software and activate your firewall.
Think before you share sensitive information - Look for signs that a web page is safe before you enter sensitive personal or business data. Look for a web address with https (“s” for secure) and a closed padlock or menu icon in front of the web address - see image here.
Email
Scam and phishing attempts - Look out for alarmist messages, misspellings and grammatical errors, deals that sound too good to be true, requests for sensitive info like account numbers, and other signs of a scam.
Unsolicited emails - Any unsolicited emails should raise a red flag immediately.
Think before you click - Read, Read, Read! Always check the entire email before you download any attachments. Attachments may contain viruses and malware. If you are unsure of the legitimacy of an email confirm with the sender that the message is real or visit the official website by typing the address yourself.
Take action - Once you've identified a suspicious email, make sure employees know what actions to take, and who to report the threat to.
Protect your data on the go
Social Media
Selective sharing - Always be cautious of what you're sharing online. Post under the assumption that it will become free for public viewing, and may never be removed from the internet.
Understand privacy settings - Familiarise yourself with your social media platform's security settings. They exist to help you control what you post and to manage your online experience.
Keep personal things personal - Understand what content is personal, and what impacts your professional life. When posting, realise that any mention of your employer makes you a representative of your organisation.
