California State University, Los Angeles
Vice President’s Message
A Message from Peter Quan, Vice President and CTO, Information Technology Services
Today, identity theft and fraud are common crimes. They occur
quickly, indiscriminately, and may go undetected for months or
years.
Technology can help us protect confidential information, but technology alone is not enough. Information security assurance uses a two-pronged approach: behavioral and technological, and the campus community should address both equally. Together, both approaches provide the necessary foundation for a safe, secure University environment.
Technology, such as firewalls, secure Web sites, and anti-virus services cannot replace each user’s attentiveness and cautious behavior. Students, faculty, and staff are the first line of defense against unauthorized access to information and campus resources. At home and work, we all must protect the information in our computers, notebooks, electronic storage devices, file cabinets, desks, printers, and copiers. We cannot be careless by sharing user IDs and passwords, or by leaving unsecured confidential documents unattended in our offices. We must be cautious about providing confidential information via Web sites, e-mail, and telephone. And, we all must guard against intruders using social engineering and hacking tactics.
Information security assurance is one of the most important priorities for Cal State L.A. Everyone on campus is responsible for protecting confidential information in whatever format: electronic or printed. The campus appreciates ongoing student, faculty, and staff efforts to help safeguard University information, resources, reputation, and integrity.
Privacy and identity protection are possible only with an informed campus community. Please continue employing best practices and raising your information security awareness. Use this guide to help you protect information – yours and the University’s – and to take action if personal or confidential information is at risk. For clarification about what actions to take, contact the IT Security and Compliance director at (323) 343-2600.
Become more knowledgeable about information security assurance. Check out these resources – they may help you avoid being a victim of identity theft:
- Are You Secure? Web site (information security resources, including a security news ticker, tips, and information on viruses, phishing, pharming, spam, hoaxes, and more)
- ITS Guidelines and Policies web page (user guidelines and applicable laws/regulations)
- ID Theft: Reference Guide (what to do if you are victim of identity theft)
- Are You Secure? Quick Reference Guide (an overview of information security assurance: what you should protect, how, who to report information theft, relevant laws, useful definitions)