The University takes a strong stance on safeguarding private information from unauthorized access and modification as well as protecting systems from denial of service attacks and unauthorized access.
If you feel you are a victim of computer crime, the Behrend Information Technology Services (BITS) and UPPS have gathered some information to help you assess the nature of the crime and guide you toward the help you need. Please explore the contents of this page to determine which method is most appropriate for your situation.
Reporting Incidents of Computer or Peripheral Theft
If you are an on-campus student and have an item that has been stolen, such as a computer, printer, digital camera, software CD, or even research, contact UPPS. If you are at an off-campus location, contact your local law enforcement agency.
Here are some helpful tips to reduce your chance of being a victim of theft or to help identify and recover your property:
- Keep all computer hardware and peripherals in a locked room.
- Use security cables and mounting brackets.
- Engrave all computer hardware with your state-issued operator's license or ID card number.
- Keep a photographic record of all computer hardware and peripheral devices.
Reporting Incidents of Unauthorized Use of Computer Network Resources
Incidents involving Internet or network access using your computer or without your permission, should be reported. If you are an on-campus resident or you access the Penn State network from off-campus, contact UPPS and/or contact Security Operations and Services at University Park ([email protected] or 814-865-HELP (4357). If you do not connect via the Penn State network, but through an Internet Service Provider (ISP), you should contact your local law enforcement agency as well as your ISP.
Reporting Incidents of Unauthorized Use of Your Computer
If someone has used your computer and has stolen or deleted files without your authorization, you should report the incident. On-campus students should report it to UPPS. Incidents that occur at an off-campus location should be reported to your local law enforcement agency.
Note: Do not call the Behrend Information Technology Services (BITS) for assistance regarding unauthorized use of your computer. If their resources are required for an investigation, they will be contacted by UPPS, the Office of Security Operations and Services at University Park, or a local law enforcement agency.
Presence of Unauthorized Programs
Unfortunately, it is quite common for computer hackers to install software, viruses, and other malicious content on your PC without your consent. To help prevent this, be sure to install and run a reputable anti-virus program on your computer. (And don't forget to obtain automatic updates for it.) Faculty, staff, and students can obtain free anti-virus and spyware tools from the Penn State downloads website.
Here are a few other hints:
- Be selective about what files you download from the Internet or transfer to your computer from CD, flash drives, or other media.
- Be mindful of the attachments that you receive in your email. Just because a friend sent you something doesn't mean their computer is safe and free of viruses.
- Install a personal firewall to limit access to your computer from the Internet. Programs are available as a free download from the Penn State downloads website.
- If your anti-virus program discovers a virus, immediately unplug your network connection or disconnect your dial-in modem session.
If you need assistance with the removal of malicious software, resident students may contact the Behrend Information Technology Service's (BITS) Residence Hall Network Technicians. Off-campus students can contact a BITS help desk. Faculty and staff should submit the IT Support Request Form to obtain assistance.
Preventing Theft of Electronic Identity
- To change your Penn State Access Account password, visit the Password Management site.
- Visit the Choose Your Password site for details about Penn State's password policy, requirements, guidelines, and tips and examples.
- Never share passwords with anyone. You are accountable for any actions taken through the fraudulent use of your Penn State Access Account.
- If you feel the security of a password has been compromised, change the affected password immediately.