CyberSecurity Advisor

The cybersecurity of FIU’s students, faculty and staff is  of great importance and concern to PantherSoft and Division of Information Technology.  As such, we urge all FIU students, faculty and staff to follow the simple tips and information provided below.  For additional cybersecurity information, please visit the IT Security Office website.

Phishing Attempts

**Please note that MyFIU will never ask you for your full Social Security Number or Date of Birth upon initial signon.

What happens if I receive an email from a phishing attempt?

  1. Report the suspicious email to abuse@fiu.edu

What happens if I enter or provide my information on a phishing site?

  1. Report the suspicious email to abuse@fiu.edu
  2. Reset/change your FIU password IMMEDIATELY
  3. If you are faculty or staff:
    • Log into MyFIU and make sure your personal information has not changed
    • Send your name and PantherID to payroll@fiu.edu and Payroll will audit and monitor your direct deposit account
  4. If you are a student, contact the IT Support Center at 305-348-2284
  5. Initiate a credit watch through all three of the credit agencies (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion)

Safe Computing Tips & Good Practices

  • Whenever available, use two-factor authentication to reset passwords or signing on to any application.
  • Use passwords that can’t be easily guessed.
  • Password protect all of your devices.
  • Minimize storage of sensitive information.
  • Beware of scams: Never reveal your password or click on unknown links or attachments. Be careful who you share your private information with.
  • Protect information when using the Internet and email.
  • Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus.  Apply all necessary security patches and updates.
  • Secure laptop computers and mobile devices at all times. Lock your device or carry them with you.
  • Shut down, lock, log off, or put your computer and other devices to sleep before leaving them unattended, and make sure they require a secure password to start up or wake-up.
  • Don’t install or download unknown or unsolicited programs/apps to your computer, phone, or other devices.
  • Secure your area before leaving it unattended.
  • Make backup copies of files or data you are not willing to lose — and store the copies very securely.
  • Use a VPN if you need to access personal accounts on open WiFi.

A 2011 survey conducted by the Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project found that 83% of Internet users ages 18 to 29 use social media.

Cybersecurity Resources

There are UPK’s available for all of FIU’s administrative applications.  Click the appropriate application link below to review and/or complete list of UPK tutorials.