Defend your data: Start the academic year securely
Cybercriminals know the start of a new semester can be hectic, making it easier to catch people off guard.
Whether you’re returning to campus or joining the University for the first time, taking a few simple precautions can help protect your personal information and WVU resources.
Information Technology Services is offering the following tips to help you start the academic year securely.
Use strong, unique passwords. Create a unique password or passphrase for each personal account and use a password manager to keep track of them. WVU Login passwords should be strong, preferably passphrases 12 to 20 characters long that combine letters, numbers, and special characters.
Protect accounts with multifactor authentication. If a site or app offers MFA, enable it. Even if a password is stolen, MFA provides an additional layer of security. Never approve an authentication request you did not initiate. WVU uses Okta Verify to protect WVU Login accounts.
Be cautious with campus-related scams. Attackers often impersonate University administrators, instructors, or departments to steal information using fake account alerts, financial aid notices, job offers, or scholarship opportunities. Verify unexpected requests and remember that legitimate WVU student employment opportunities are posted by WVU Career Services on Handshake.
Be careful when using public Wi-Fi and shared computers. Whether you’re in a coffee shop, hotel, airport, or library, avoid accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi or shared computers. Use the WVU.Encrypted network on campus, a cellular network, or a VPN when public Wi-Fi is your only option, and remember to sign out completely when using a shared device.
Think before you click, scan, or download. Cybercriminals continue to use malicious links, QR codes, and file attachments to steal credentials and distribute malware. With AI making phishing and voice (vishing) scams more convincing than ever, take a moment to verify that links, software, and QR codes come from a trusted
Don’t share personal information.Never share your WVU Login credentials, Social Security number, date of birth, or financial information in response to unsolicited emails, texts, or phone calls. If a message creates urgency or seems unusual, pause and verify before taking action.
Forward suspicious emails as an attachment to DefendYourData@wvu.edu, and we’ll determine whether they’re legitimate or a potential security threat.
If you suspect a security or privacy incident, report it immediately. Depending on the nature of the incident, Information Security Services or the Health Sciences Privacy and Security Team will follow up.
