The following software can be used day-to-day on any operating system to help you take control and ensure your digital safety.
Antivirus
Bitdefender Total Security is a multiplatform antivirus software that helps protect devices from malware, malicious websites, and other online threats. It scans for harmful files and programs, removes detected threats, and offers real-time protection to help prevent infections.
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MFA
Microsoft Authenticator, a Multi-Factor Authentication app, offers identity and access protection by adding an extra layer of security by generating a one-time passcode after you enter your password.
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Password Manager
Bitdefender SecurePass generates, stores, and autofills strong passwords and encrypts data using end-to-end encryption. Weak and reused passwords are a leading cause of security incidents; password managers can mitigate this. Bitdefender SecurePass is Included in Bitdefender Total Security.
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What to Look Out For Next TimeDouble check any unexpected offers to try a new AI assistant.Check the full email address, even if the message uses Purdue’s name or logo.Hover over links and confirm the tool is legitimate before entering your login information. |
Picture this: While checking your work email, an urgent email claiming to be from Purdue IT says your account has a virus and tells you to click a link immediately.
What to do: Do not click the link, open any attachments, or reply to the message. Check the sender’s full email address and forward the email to abuse@purdue.edu.
Picture this: A website says you must install software or a browser extension to view a document.
What to do: Do not install it. Download software only from Purdue IT’s Storefront or the official Microsoft 365 application portal. If it is not listed, check with Purdue IT or your departmental IT team before installing it.
Picture this: You use the same password for your Purdue account and several personal accounts because it is easier to remember.
What to do: Use a unique 12+ character password with words, numbers, and symbols. Then store them using 1Password so they are easier to manage and you do not have to remember each one.
Picture this: A Microsoft Authenticator alert appears on your phone saying there is a new sign-in request for your Purdue account. It asks you to enter a two-digit number and approve the login, even though it's not you who's signing in.
What to do: Deny the request, change your Purdue password, and immediately email it@purdue.edu to report the suspicious behavior.
Reading the news can help you stay informed about current events and learn new things. The following resources can be utilized by both beginners and advanced users.
Get hands-on experience on campus while meeting new people! The following clubs are all based out of the West Lafayette campus.
