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Open house reception to celebrate retirements of IT Services staff members
Dec 11th, 2023
Johnny Murer, Eva Bernachi, Armand Gaudette, and Mary Brownlie

An open house reception Wednesday, Dec. 13, will celebrate the retirements of several long-serving Information Technology Services team members.

Eva Bernachi has been at the University since 1982. Bernachi has over 41 years of service, most recently as a database administrator and senior application developer in IT Services.

Mary Brownlie, database administrator/programmer analyst, will retire after 43 years with the University. Brownlie began working in the Office of Personnel Services in 1980 as a secretary-receptionist. From this position she was promoted to programmer in IT Services in 1985.

Ed Drouillard, systems support and operations manager, retired in early 2023. He was a long-dedicated member of Information Technology Services for 42 years.

Armand Gaudette, senior application programmer, started working in IT Services in 1985 and will retire after more than 38 years of service.

Mike Kenney will be posthumously recognized for his 41 years of dedication to the University. He was set to retire this year.

Johnny Murer, system programmer, retired from IT Services in the summer of 2023. He began his career with the department in 1981.

Friends and colleagues are invited to wish them well during an open house from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the University Club, Vanier Hall.

IT Services provides tips to protect electronic assets
Oct 25th, 2023
Cybersecurity is a team effort

In today’s digitally driven world, electronic devices play an essential role in personal and professional lives, making it crucial to prioritize their security.

IT Services recommends following these activities to help you safeguard your electronic assets and mitigate cybersecurity threats.

Each habit provides protection, and combined, they are great defences against cyberthreats.

  • Closing applications and browsers: At the end of your workday, close all applications and browser tabs to prevent potential vulnerabilities.
  • Restart your computer regularly: At a minimum, weekly computer shutdowns and restarts help clear any potential security threats and improve system performance.
  • Enable automatic operating systems: These updates promptly address security vulnerabilities and improve overall device performance.
  • Use the GlobalProtect VPN: Utilize the University’s updated GlobalProtect VPN for secure connections.
  • Maintain antivirus and firewall software: Stay up-to-date with antivirus and firewall software for comprehensive protection.
  • Application updates: Install Microsoft Office from portal.office.com for regular updates and always use trusted sources like Company Portal, Microsoft Store, or Mac App Store for apps.
  • Check for application updates: Ensure your applications, including web browsers, are set to check for updates automatically.
  • Install Endpoint Protection software: Endpoint Protection software, like Cortex XDR and Windows Defender, acts as a shield against external viruses and malware. Both scan your device for malicious software, removing potential threats.

Guidance on computer care can be found on the Cybersecurity Computer Care webpage.

Registering or joining your University-owned or personal device in device administration protects the shared campus network and data. It is a collective measure to fortify the campus network against potential cyber threats, enhancing data protection and security.

When a computer or mobile phone is joined or registered in device administration, it safeguards the University’s data while offering near-seamless access to UWindsor systems for University employees. Device administration also deploys security fixes and patches directly to the device, enhancing its security posture.

By adopting a proactive approach to cybersecurity, the campus community can play a pivotal role in fortifying the University’s data against cybercriminals. These security measures, combined with the University’s robust firewalls, work together to safeguard the network and data from malicious attacks.

Led by IT Services, Cybersecurity Awareness Month underscores the importance of cybersecurity for the UWindsor community, empowering individuals to take control of their digital safety and share in the responsibility of protecting the University’s data. Explore additional resources at uwindsor.ca/cybersecurity.

IT Services warns not to take the bait
Oct 18th, 2023
graphic reading cybersecurity requires a team effort

Phishing attempts rank as one of the most prevalent types of fraud — the most-reported in Canada in 2022, according to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

It takes many forms including email, text, call, and voicemail, all aiming to access an individual’s personal information. Vigilance is key in identifying phishing attempts and empowers the campus community to defend itself against would-be attackers.

Information Technology Services offers five tips to avoid getting phished:

  1. Evaluate the email or text request type.
  2. Examine the sender’s name and email address carefully for inconsistencies.
  3. Review the message for urgency or out of the norm solicitations.
  4. Check links found within the email by hovering over it.
  5. Beware of requests to access your computer.

Individuals should even use caution when responding to what looks like an internal email message or a reputable vendor. Hackers attempt to impersonate familiar people, to get you to let your guard down.

Suppose you think the message is legitimate, but have a suspicion. In that case, you should contact the sender through a different communication channel to verify the message. Do not respond to the potential hacker through the original message.

“We continue to help community members who experienced attempts to comprise their accounts,” says Marcin Pulcer, interim executive director of IT Services. “Hackers play the guise of providing a helpful service. It could not be further from the truth resulting in personal data and productivity loss. While these types of phishing attempts may seem on an individual level, the threat could lead to a campus-wide problem.”

MS Outlook offers a way to report phishing email attempts within the application. It is useful to report the message as it helps improve the effectiveness of filtering the nefarious messages to your Junk Mail folder. Otherwise, report the message to spam@uwindsor.ca.

Find examples of phishing messages on the Cybersecurity Awareness website to brush up your skills to prevent phishing attacks.

If you think you have had your UWin Account compromised, report it to the IT Service Desk at 519-253-3000, ext. 4440, and change your UWin Account password immediately.

Led by IT Services, Cybersecurity Awareness Month efforts highlight cybersecurity issues relevant to the UWindsor community. More information can be found at uwindsor.ca/cybersecurity.

Tips for protecting yourself on the web
Oct 11th, 2023
Cybersecrity is a team effort.

In 2021, about 75 per cent of all fraud reports lodged with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre were linked to cyber-related incidents. It’s timelier than ever for individuals to gain knowledge and take measures to protect against cybercrime. Learn how to protect yourself and the campus community.

Safe Browsing Habits

Before you venture online, ensure your device is in peak condition by using a browser with the latest updates. Connect securely via the University’s GlobalProtect VPN, especially when off-campus and connecting to public Wi-Fi. Another useful tip is to streamline your browsing experience by designating specific browsers for work and personal use.

Navigate the web cautiously and steer clear of dubious websites. Scrutinize links before clicking, especially in emails or ones offering something that is too good to be true.

When shopping online, opt for reputable stores and ensure there is a secure connection by checking for secure sites with the padlock symbol in the address bar. After shopping, log out from the website. One more measure is to dedicate a separate credit card for online shopping to spot suspicious charges quickly.

Find more details on our safe browsing tips webpage.

Choose a Password with Care

When signing up for new online accounts, choose a strong and unique password. Avoid re-using passwords across accounts. When possible, use multifactor authentication. This may seem like an extra step to access an account, but it is one more layer protecting your private information from hackers.

Review additional information on our password care webpage.

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. By adopting these practices, you contribute to a safer online environment for yourself and the Lancer community. Stay vigilant and protect your digital presence.

Led by Information Technology Services, Cybersecurity Awareness Month efforts highlight electronic data safety issues relevant to the UWindsor community. Find helpful resources at uwindsor.ca/cybersecurity.

Training session offers an opportunity to acquire Drupal skills
Oct 5th, 2023
man working on computer

University employees responsible for maintaining content on the official UWindsor website are invited to Drupal training on Thursday, Oct. 12. This training is essential for becoming a web editor and helps improve the competencies of those already responsible for web pages.

Attendees will learn fundamental skills to create pages, upload graphics, and organize effective menus, as well as web standards and best practices for accessibility, usability, and functionality.

Rob Aitkens, web development team leader, will guide the training and field questions.

Drupal 7 + Web Accessibility Basic Training will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. It is open to the campus community regardless of their experience level.

Interested faculty and staff, including student employees, can register on the IT Services Booking page to attend the online training session and learn to improve the user experience of the University’s official website.