security on the go

Work and study activities can be carried out in many other places than just at the university You may need to make some final changes to a document on the evening before a presentation. You may have a text to read while you wait for your friend to arrive. Or maybe you need to check whether you’ve received a specific email. All these activities require access to AAU’s systems.

Connecting to other networks than AAU’s increases the risk of information security breaches, where unauthorised persons may be able gain access to your and AAU’s data.

In the following, you can find information on how to strengthen the information security when you’re on the go.

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1. Avoid public Wi-Fi networks

Be cautious about using public Wi-Fi networks at cafés, hotels, airports, etc. The owners of these networks may intercept all network traffic including Skype/mobile conversations, entered passwords and any activity related to downloading or transmitting data. In this way, unauthorised persons may gain access to your information.

Open public networks may represent a trap because criminal network owners may name their network so that it resembles a public network that you know and trust.

Always use VPN (Cisco AnyConnect) when you need to download or send confidential or sensitive information.

Disconnect from public networks when you’re not using it. When you’re connected to a public network, you run the risk of unauthorised persons attempting to gain access to your device.
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2. Keep an eye on your mobile phone and computer

Take care of your mobile phone and computer when you're on the go. Protect your device with a password. Pay extra attention if you have access to confidential or sensitive information on your device. Even when your device is protected by a password, there’s no guarantee that other people won’t be able to access your information if your device is stolen.
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3. Never plug in an unknown USB key to your computer

USB keys may contain malware that will infect your computer if you open it. Therefore, do NOT use USB keys you don’t know the origin of or from people or companies you don’t trust. If in doubt, contact AAU IT Services, who can check the contents of the USB key. If you find a USB key, please hand it in to the nearest AAU IT Support service desk.
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4. Turn off Bluetooth and Airdrop

Make sure to turn off Bluetooth and Airdrop (Mac) so that others can’t log in to your network or view your files.
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5. Avoid public computers

Libraries and hotels often provide computers with Internet access. However, these computers may contain malware or keyloggers, which may collect the passwords that you enter. Please avoid accessing confidential and sensitive information on a computer you borrow. And always remember to log off!
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6. Never lend your device to strangers

Be cautious about lending your device to others. If you do, make sure to monitor the person using it - and only lend it to someone you trust.