Cybersecurity Tip of the Week – Lock Devices in Shared Spaces

University campuses, even ours, are full of shared and open-access spaces-the library, study lounges, classrooms, labs, and places like GEB and the SAC. It only takes a few seconds for someone to swipe an unattended laptop, tablet, or phone. Always lock your screen when stepping away, even briefly. Better yet, take your device with you. Enable full-disk encryption and configure automatic screen lock after a short period of inactivity to protect the data on your device. Faculty and researchers should be especially cautious-lost devices can expose sensitive research, student records, or personal files. Students are also at risk if classwork, financial data, or login credentials are compromised. Think of your device like your wallet: never leave it unguarded in public.

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