Security & Privacy


Higher Education's Top Five Network Security Threats for 2011

The game has changed in higher education network security--the proliferation of embedded devices from gaming consoles to kiosks, the skyrocketing adoption of social media, as well as a slew of other evolving technologies are forcing higher education institutions to 'step it up' when it comes to safeguarding the network. In 2011 we'll see even more threats, and in new environments.

Taking Command of the Campus Network

Dominican University's IT security woes started about seven years ago, when a virus outbreak compromised its computer network. In the throes of student move-in that year, several viruses breached the River Forest, IL university's firewall via infected equipment that was brought on campus by students.



More IT Grief: Office Exploit Broadly Released

Code that can exploit a Rich Text Format flaw in Microsoft Office has been published, according to a Microsoft announcement late last month.

Siemon Addresses Physical Layer Security with Fiber Optic Lock

Siemon, a company that produces network cabling and related hardware, has released a line of locks specifically to prevent unauthorized access to unused fiber optic network ports.

Data Security

4 Steps To Combat Malware Enterprisewide

In the fight against malicious software, it’s not enough to treat individual infected machines. Here’s how to develop a malware strategy that protects an entire campus.

Researchers Show JavaScript Allows Web History Sniffing

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego said they're planning to broaden their research after they provided evidence earlier this month that Web sites and the advertisers on them can easily retain a history of the other sites you've recently visited--without your permission.

Internet Explorer 9 To Get 'Tracking Protection'

Microsoft has announced an upcoming privacy feature for its Internet Explorer 9 Web browser, one that will provide "tracking protection" to give users potential control over online behavioral advertising, which monitors what users click on and view at Web sites.

Eastern Illinois U Cuts User Complaints with NAC Overhaul

Eastern Illinois University has reported a 70 percent reduction in help desk calls a year after switching network access control applications.

Microsoft Investigating Windows Proof-of-Concept Flaw

Microsoft noted last week that its security team is looking into an elevation-of-privilege exploit affecting Windows-based systems.

Bentley U Implements Automated Policy Review Service

Bentley University recently implemented a new Web-based service to deliver and track policies and training materials that members of the staff need to comply with.