Protect Your Devices

Desktops & Laptops

Keep your operating system (OS) software and 3rd-party applications up-to-date.

Enable your host firewall

• Microsoft Windows systems
• Apple Macintosh systems

Scan your browser for security issues and out-of-date plug-ins.

• Qualys BrowserCheck

Secure your network connections - utilize the CUIT VPN for remote access to Columbia University resources.

• CUIT Cisco VPN client

Mobile Devices

• Set a device PIN or passcode lock.
• Use whole-device-encryption where available.
• Set up device geolocation:
  • Apple iOS devices
  • Google Android devices
• This enables you to recover your device if lost or stolen.
• Make device back-ups frequently.
• Don't "root" or "jailbreak" your phone - doing so can compromise its integrity.
• Use the FCC Smartphone Security Checker for checklist of best practices for any mobile device.
• FCC Smartphone Security Checker