January 9, 2018

Spectre/Meltdown

Recent news stories describe a new family of security issues with the ominous names of Spectre and Meltdown. These related set of vulnerabilities are significant, but CUIT is taking action to protect your data.

Essentially, for the past two decades, CPUs have had a feature called speculative execution that allows them to speed up running software. Security researchers have shown a mechanism to use this feature to read memory across processes, meaning that your web browser can read your email or a virus could read your passwords. Microsoft has developed patches for Windows devices, which IT is rolling out this Thursday evening. In addition, CUIT has isolated key servers to further harden our infrastructure.

Apple has stated that iPhones and iPads running the most recent version of the OS are protected from this attack. Please ensure your device is running the latest Software Update. Google has addressed this issue for Android devices with the 2018-01-05 or later patch level. How to determine your Android patch level (https://www.greenbot.com/article/3085631/android/how-to-find-out-if-you-have-the-latest-android-security-patch.html). Both manufacturers have indicated that there has been no indication that hackers have taken advantage of this vulnerability so far, but that is no guarantee of safety over the long term.

As always, if you suspect you may be the victim of an Information Security issue, we are here to help. Calls us at 937.766.7905.

New and Improved ITR System: TeamDynamix Coming Soon!

The current Information Technology Request (ITR) system will be replaced by TeamDynamix on Monday, January 22, 2018. TeamDynamix is a comprehensive web-based system designed for colleges and universities to manage requests for services, reporting and resolving problems, project management, and knowledge base articles in an integrated manner.

TeamDynamix will allow Information Technology staff to better manage requests that you submit while also giving you visibility into these requests. You will have access to an integrated portal that will allow you to easily view your service requests, problem tickets, and project requests and immediately see their current status.  Go to New ITR System: TeamDynamix  for additional details.

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