George Mason University employees and students are gearing up for the holiday break. But before they leave for the holidays, Information Technology Services (ITS) reminds all to take the following precautions:
- Update Operating Systems
- Check OS versions (SCCM, JAMF)
- Update Applications
- Check the version of installed apps
- Log off your systems, and turn off all non-essential devices, including computers, servers (if you can), printers, and monitors in your office and on-campus residences.
- Those who telework should log out of systems they are not using.
During the break:
- When checking email, be wary of phishing attempts, help desk support scams, malicious browser extensions, and look-alike website addresses.
- Report phishing emails. If you receive a phishing email, report it to ITS Support at 703-993-8870 or via Live Chat at https://its.gmu.edu/chat/. During the holiday break, any emergencies will be escalated to the ITS staff.
When returning from the break, it is recommended that you:
- Remove old devices and enroll new devices in Duo Security, George Mason’s provider for Two Factor Authentication (2FA).
- Check for system patches and updates on all systems, including any new devices.
- When catching up with emails, be wary of phishing attempts, help desk scams, malicious browser extensions, and look-alike domains.