How to Digital Cleaning & Declutter? 10/28/2020
Answer
Digital Cleaning & Declutter
Consider decluttering your digital life with a few easy, actionable tips that will help you stay cyber safe and protect your personal data and identity. With preventing identity theft and cybercrime as a top safety concern for CUSM, we encourage everyone to make “digital spring cleaning” an annual ritual to help protect valuable personal data.
KEEP A CLEAN MACHINE
Ensure all software on internet-connected devices – including PCs, smartphones, and tablets – is up to date. Don't postpone critical software updates. Having the most current security software, web browsers, and operating systems are some of the easiest ways to protect your data.
DECLUTTER YOUR MOBILE LIFE
Most of us have apps we no longer use and some that need updating. Delete unused apps and keep others current, including the operating system on your mobile devices.
DO A DIGITAL FILE PURGE
Perform a good, thorough review of your online files. Tend to digital records, PCs, phones, and any device with storage just as you do for paper files. Get started by doing the following:
- Clean up your email: Save only those emails you really need and unsubscribe to email you no longer need/want to receive.
- Back it up: Copy important data to a secure cloud site or another computer/drive where it can be safely stored. Passphrase protects backup drives. Always back up your files before getting rid of a device, too.
OWN YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE
Review the privacy and security settings on websites you use to ensure they’re at your comfort level for sharing. It’s OK to limit how and with whom you share information.
SECURELY DISPOSE OF ANY OLD/BROKEN DEVICES
For any work-provided devices & equipment that are either old or broken please return them to the IITS department. As for personal devices & equipment including: hard-drives, laptops, tablets, copy machines, fax machines, etc. the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency has specific tips for secure disposal of electronic devices. Another option is to recycle your electronics at any local e-waste recycling service such as TechWaste Recycling.
HEALTH OF YOUR DEVICE
If you suspect any issues or concerns, such as a virus, involving the health of your device please contact the IITS HelpDesk at helpdesk@cusm.org. We are happy to assist in maintaining the health of your system.
If you have any IT-related issues or questions, we are always happy to help.
Please Contact the IITS Help Desk at helpdesk@cusm.org.