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New 14-character password implemented from 1 April 2024

Wednesday, February 28th, 2024

Person typing on la

Stellenbosch University’s Information Technology staff are constantly improving our systems to protect the University, the users, and our precious data against possible cyber-attacks. As part of our latest security updates, from 1 April 2024 onwards, we will require you to choose a password that is at least 14 characters long.

Like our previous passwords, your password should also include the following:

  • At least one uppercase letter (A-Z);
  • At least one lowercase letter (a-z);
  • At least one number (0-9);
  • At least one special character (±!@#$%^&*()_+)

Because you are now allowed a longer password, you can even create a short sentence as a password, for instance: IdrinkCoffee@f1rst!

We remind you not to write your password down and leave it in spaces where people can find it easily; instead, choose one that is easy to remember or save it in a space where only you can access it.

Please see the PDF brochure that explains the new regulations for SU passwords here: SU IT Password Regulations 2024

 

Types of phishing attacks you need to know to stay safe

Friday, November 3rd, 2023

Phishing has evolved from a single technique into many highly specialised tactics, each adapted to specific types of targets and technologies. First described in 1987, phishing is now carried out via text, phone, advertising, and—of course—email.

Boiled down, all these tactics exist for the same purpose—to swipe confidential information from an unsuspecting target in order to
extract something of value. But knowing about the hugely diverse set of today’s phishing tactics can help ordinary people, home and
business internet users alike, to be more prepared for the inevitable instance when they become the target.

In this PDF we share 11 common phishing tactics you should know…

Types of phishing attacks

MFA – Everything you need to know

Friday, October 13th, 2023

Cybersecurity Awareness Month takes place during October each year. The theme for 2023 is “Secure Our World”. With this blog post, our focus is on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), which adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts, making it harder for hackers to get in. 

What is MFA?

Multi-Factor Authentication adds a second layer of security to your account to ensure that your account stays safe, even if someone else knows your password. This will mean that, for certain services, including Microsoft Outlook, Teams, etc. you will be prompted to provide more information in order to authenticate your identity as a Stellenbosch University student or staff member.

What are the benefits of MFA?

  • MFA improves the University’s security by adding another layer an intruder would have to penetrate.
  • MFA protects your University identity by ensuring no one else can act on your behalf even if your password has been compromised.
  • MFA safeguards you against security attacks.
  • With implementing MFA your information is protected which is one of the ways to increase the University’s reputation and trustworthiness.

Which authentication method is recommended?

The Microsoft Authenticator application can be downloaded from the Google Play Store (Android devices) and the App Store (Apple devices). Here’s a guide on how to set up Microsoft Authenticator: How to set up Microsoft Authenticator (1)

WATCH: A helpful guide on MFA

Be aware. Be secure. Be cyber smart.

Computer Literacy and Digital Literacy – not the same thing

Wednesday, June 7th, 2023

Computer and Digital Literacy are two separate things, but they go together. For us to be effective, responsible technology users, we need to have both. In this article we explore the difference between these two concepts, and why it is important to develop digital literacy skills.

What is computer literacy?

Computer literacy is defined as the knowledge and ability to use computers and related technology efficiently, with skill levels ranging from elementary use to computer programming and advanced problem solving. Those who are computer literate have the ability to perform basic tasks on the computer. For example, switching on your computer, knowing how to access the internet, navigating a browser, and operating software systems, and completing any other tasks that make it possible to do your job.

What is digital literacy?

Digital literacy is the ability to navigate our digital environment using reading, writing, critical thinking and technical skills. It’s about using technological devices such as a smartphone, laptop or tablet, to find, evaluate and communicate information. So, digital literacy goes beyond computer literacy because it gives individuals the power to connect around the world. 

Why is digital literacy important?

Digital literacy skills are essential for participating in the modern economy. Digital literacy can play a powerful role in helping people connect, learn, engage with their community, and create more promising futures. Simply reading articles online does not address digital literacy, so it is important for everyone to understand the variety of content and possibilities that are accessible online.

  • Efficient Communication: Digital literacy improves communication that creates a more efficient workflow. It allows employees to communicate with each other through various platforms, such as email, instant messaging, video conferencing, and social media.
  • Enhances Problem-Solving Skills: With digital literacy, employees can access vast amounts of information through the internet, which allows them to research solutions to complex problems, find relevant data, and make informed decisions.
  • Increases Efficiency: Digital tools such as automation, online collaboration platforms, and project management software can increase efficiency in the workplace.
  • Improves Creativity: Digital literacy can also foster creativity in employees by providing access to various digital tools that can unleash their creative potential and produce high-quality content.
  • Better Time Management: Digital literacy can help employees manage their time more effectively.
  • Online Security: Digital literacy skills help individuals understand the importance of securing their online information and the potential risks of cyber-attacks.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): Digital literacy skills are crucial for leveraging AI’s benefits.
  • Big Data: Digital literacy skills have become essential for individuals to interpret and analyse vast amounts of data effectively.
  • Social Media: Digital literacy skills are essential for using social media safely and responsibly. It enables individuals to identify potential risks associated with social media.

Start your digital literacy pathway

With the Microsoft Digital Literacy classes, you can gain skills needed to effectively explore the internet. 

Sources:

YOTTABYTE

LinkedIn

Microsoft

Futurelab

SU IT Digital Literacy in a nutshell

Microsoft: Out with the old and in with the new

Friday, March 31st, 2023

Technology has helped us become more efficient and work faster than ever, but technology is driven by software that must keep up with new requirements and regulations. For example, the security of the data on your device is critical, especially if you are working with company information. Then we must also comply with regulations such as POPIA.  

Now, more than ever, it is important that the software used on campus is updated. The IT Division always follows the rule of “best minus one” to ensure that software is properly tested for compatibility and that bugs are repaired before it is rolled out to the rest of the campus.

What does that mean for me as a user?  

The software that plays the most crucial part on your device is Microsoft Windows, and the version recommended is Windows 10 version 21H2. If your device is not compliant but still under warranty, the IT Division will upgrade it without charging the handling fee.

All new devices on campus are now installed with Windows 11 21H2.

It is also important to upgrade your Office software to Office 365 as the older versions, such as Office 2016, is no longer supported by Microsoft, and Office 2019 is nearing the end of support by October 2023. Once again, your data will be at risk as the software no longer receives security updates.

So, it’s out with the old and in with the new to save you time, get new features and have greater security.

 

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