Information Security

Information Security is responsible for ensuring the confidentiality and data integrity of the University´s computing assets, including university–owned computers, applications, servers, and the data residing on those devices. Information Security strives to maintain the security of the University´s systems and data to prevent it from being used for unintended purposes by educating the campus community about security related issues, preventing the unwanted access of University records by intruders, and developing effective methods of responding to imformation security incidents.

Tips to Improve the Security of your Computer and Data

• Never share your user password with others or write it down in a conspicuous place.
• Remember to change your password every 90 days and utilize a secure password, using a combination of letters, numbers, and signs. For example: pst@1?4.
• Download and regularly update anti-virus and anti–spam software that is available for student, faculty and staff in order to prevent vulnerabilities to ever–changing viruses and other forms of attack against computers.
• Use the secure connection provided by the Virtual Private Network (VPN) when accessing the University's wireless network. This secure connection prevents unwanted viewing of your electronic communications.
• Secure your laptop(s) in a locked environment whenever you are away from your computer. Consider using a lock to secure your laptop to a desk.
• Register your computer with a theft recovery service. Click here to learn more about the CSUN “STOP” program.

Education and Awareness

The CSU is in the process of developing new Information Security Awareness training. During this transition, self–training is available for students, faculty and staff through a series of short, informative public awareness videos at: http://www.researchchannel.org/securityvideo2007/.

Information Security Alerts

IT posts announcements to inform the campus of any items relevant to campus information security. To view announcements, click here.

Security Software (Anti–Virus & Anti–Spam)

Information Technology provides Norton Anti–Virus Corporate Edition software for no additional charge to students, faculty and staff. This software protects your computer from being attacked or compromised by unwanted items like viruses, spam, and other forms of unwanted intrusion. To download the software, visit https://www.csun.edu/itr/downloads/index.cgi and sign in using your University user ID and password. After signing in you will see Symantec Anti–Virus Corporate Edition available for downloading to a PC or Mac.

For details on installing and configuring the software, please review the installation and configuration guides for PC or Macs, or you may contact the University Help Desk at (818) 677–1400 or by email at helpdesk@csun.edu for further assistance.

Need Help with Information Security?

For any Information Security questions, please contact:

Hilary Baker, VP for Information Technology & CIO at (818) 677–7700 or email hilary.baker@csun.edu.