The field of information security has exploded over the recent years, in response to the growing threats to our systems and data. In today's technological age, protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of our information is essential. The Information Security Unit at Missouri State University is committed to helping protect information for the Missouri State University community. We have created the Information Security Web site to educate the University community about information security and help users to understand their responsibilities, and opportunities, to protect data assets.
The links at left provide information you will find useful. For up to the minute updates please see our News and Advisories link.
Protecting Your Privacy
Protecting your privacy is important – it may keep someone from stealing your identity. You, as an individual, can do a lot to protect your privacy. Here are four things you can do to protect yourself: (1) never provide your username and password combination to anyone. Not verbally and especially not in e-mail. No legitimate system administrator needs to know your password. (2) reveal as little personal information as possible on the social networking sites such as Facebook and LinkedIn. Making personal details public just invites identity theft by giving a thief a detailed profile. (3) When getting rid of paper documents with personal information, shred them. Don’t just throw them away. “Dumpster-diving” can reveal a great deal about you if you’re not careful. (4) Text messages from anyone other than your friends can easily be another “phishing” attempt, especially if you are asked to provide personal details or call a number. Never reply to a text message with personal information.
These are just four ways to help protect your privacy. Just remember – stop and think before you give out your personal information.
Protecting University Information
Following the suggestions above is essential to protecting University information, too. In addition, be sure to log off or lock your keyboard and computer when you leave your desk, even for only a few minutes. Keep your monitor positioned so others cannot easily see what is displayed, and if someone comes to work on your computer, be sure to ask for identification. Never leave papers with personally identifiable information on your desk - lock them in a drawer or file cabinet when they are not in use. Shred them when they are no longer needed.
If You Suspect Information Has Been Compromised
Suspected or confirmed information security incidents must be reported to University Information Security Officer (ISO), or, in the ISO’s absence, the Electronic Information Regulatory Compliance Specialist.
The ISO will investigate the report, and if a breach has occurred, will inform the Chief Information Officer (CIO). The CIO will inform the University administration, and/or law enforcement, as appropriate. The ISO will take measures to contain the incident and begin the investigation and documentation process.
If an intrusion occurs but no sensitive information is breached, the ISO will handle the incident by containing the intrusion and notifying the system owner and custodian for remedial action, as well as starting the investigation and documentation process.