Cyber-Safety Basics: Security for Everyone
UC Davis Cyber-Safety Program
The information provided here is intended to help you learn about basic cyber-safety practices, inform you of computer security services available on campus, and allow you to take quick action to protect your computer, yourself and the campus from security attacks. These recommended practices are based on the security standards set forth in the UC Davis Cyber-Safety Program policy.
Install OS/Software Updates
Updates - sometimes called patches - fix problems with your Operating System (OS) and software programs. Set up your computer to do automatic updates to be sure your computer stays protected.
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Run Anti-Virus Software
To avoid computer problems caused by viruses, install and run an anti-virus program like Sophos. UC Davis students, faculty and staff can get Sophos for free.
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Prevent Identity Theft
Protect account numbers, Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers and other personal information. Don't give out this information unless you know exactly who's receiving it. Search for and remove any unnecessary personal information from your computer.
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Turn on Personal Firewalls
Check your computer's security settings for a built-in personal firewall. If you have one, turn it on.
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Avoid Spyware/Adware
These sneaky programs can cause big problems. Use programs like Spybot and Ad-Aware to scan and remove spyware/adware from your computer.
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Protect Passwords
Don't share your passwords and always make new passwords difficult to guess by mixing letters, numbers and punctuation and avoiding dictionary words.
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Back up Important Files
Reduce your risk of losing important files to a virus, computer crash, theft or disaster by creating back-up copies.
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