Security Aware at UWB

Because we care, we’re security aware

In response to the pandemic, many of us have shifted to working primarily from home which increases the risk for cybersecurity attacks. Being security aware means you understand what the threats are — and you take the right steps to prevent them. 

ACTION #1 – Keep a clean machine

Many data breaches and incidents occur because of out-of-date software or operating system (OS) vulnerabilities. Information Technology provides monthly security updates for our UW-owned computer.

  • To receive your updates when working remotely, you need to login to Husky On Net (Big-IP Edge Client) for your Windows or MacOS computer.
  • If you have questions about whether your computer is receiving updates contact UW Bothell IT.

ACTION #2 – Don’t get hooked

Phishing is a form of email fraud in which victims are enticed into providing sensitive information which can then be used to access personal and UW information. The UW CISO website contains new resources to help you safeguard UW’s institutional information:

ACTION #3 – Get 2-steps ahead

Utilizing two-factor authentication (2FA) protects you and the UW community by preventing others from logging in with your UW NetID, even if they know your password. The good news is everyone at UW already uses 2FA, through the application Duo, to access Workday. In the future, utilizing 2FA will also be required to log in to many web-based UW applications. To protect your UW NetID and the resources you access online, we recommend enabling 2FA for the web now.

Please note: UW-IT recommends using the Duo Mobile application. The application does not store data on your smartphone or tablet, therefore it does not create records subject to disclosure as “public records.” For more information visit UW-IT’s FAQ page.

ACTION #4 – Be a good digital citizen

Being a good digital citizen means critically thinking about our digital practices and how those decisions impact security and risk management for UW. Each of us is responsible for helping the UW implement effective electronic records management. Knowing what records to keep or delete helps ensure that we are able to find and secure information important to the University. 

Have other questions about records management? Contact UW’s Record Management Services for support.

ACTION #5 – Stay security aware on the go

In previous actions, we have shared advice on how to protect the data on your device. Physically securing your device is just as important. Mobile phones, tablets, and laptops make it easier to store and access information, but they are also easier to steal or misplace.

  • Keep your devices secured: In addition to enabling basic security features, such as passcodes or pin numbers on your phone [iOSAndroid] and auto-locking after inactivity, make sure your devices are in a secure location when you’re not using them and that you have your devices with you when you leave a public place or vehicle. 

If your university device is misplaced or stolen, notify both Campus Safety and UW Bothell IT so that we can help you take the appropriate next steps.


For more information about cybersecurity at the UW, check out the UW CISO website.
If you have questions about your UW Bothell computer, contact UW Bothell IT.