Information security has become critical with today’s increased reliance on online services for managing and storing electronic records. Simmons takes steps to ensure the security, integrity, and reliability of college electronic resources, but people and their behavior are an essential part of the process. Simmons’ Information Security Officer, David Bruce, manages the college’s Information Security Program and is available to answer questions and assist with this important task.
Simmons provides a wide range of resources to help protect you, your computer, and the Simmons network from online hazards. These pages describe some of these services and provide links to online free antivirus software downloads, secure file transfer portals, and more. Please take a look at this important information and let us know if you have any questions or need any help.
A key component of the Information Security Program is the Security of Sensitive Information Policy, which all users agree to when receiving their Simmons accounts.
The online dangers posed to your privacy and your data are substantial, so please review the information and tools available on these pages and take whatever actions are necessary to safeguard your computer.
Students bringing personal computers to campus must have current, active antivirus software installed. Download free antivirus software from Simmons Technology Support before connecting to the Simmons network.
Your passwords protect all of the information on your computer, your websites, your credit cards, and your bank. If someone guesses or steals your passwords, he or she has access to your files, your e-mail, and your funds. What is more, this information can lead the intruder to personal information about your friends, your family, and other people at Simmons.
Safeguard yourself and the people around you by creating strong passwords.
Never tell your password to hackers claiming to be an employee of your bank who may call asking for personal information in order to gain access to your account. Other “phishing” scammers may send e-mails imploring you to verify your account information by clicking on a link to a phony website. Read more about Phishing.
The information on your computer is like your wallet: don’t leave it unattended, and most importantly, log off before you leave.
See additional suggestions for safe computing.
Sensitive Information is data which, if made public, might compromise another person’s right to privacy. Examples of this type of information are:
A person’s name, address, or telephone number…in conjunction with that person’s…
All computers connecting to the Simmons network are required to have current, active antivirus software installed. Simmons-issued computers come with antivirus software already installed.
Faculty, staff, and students who bring a Windows or Mac personal computer to campus are welcome to download free antivirus software from Technology Support’s antivirus page.
Log in and follow the instructions to protect your computer.
Technology distributes podcasts, informational and instructional videos, and the Simmons Information Security Bulletin to keep the College community updated on changes in security policy and services.
The full Simmons Information Security Policy is available here.
Email the Information Security Officer if you notice:
Simmons Information Security Officer: | security@simmons.edu |
Simmons Technology: | 617-521-2222 |
Simmons Public Safety: | 617-521-1111 |
Boston Police: | 911 |
Learn more about our Information Security Policies.