In today’s digital age, cybersecurity at Rutgers is more crucial than ever. Universities store tons of sensitive data, from student records to research findings, making them prime targets for cyber-attacks. We also face unique challenges, including third-party risks, diverse user populations, decentralized IT infrastructures, and budget constraints. Recent incidents at other institutions – the August 2023 attack that disrupted services for 230,000 students and the September 2023 breach exposing decades of data – highlight the severe operational, financial, and reputational risks breaches pose for Rutgers. Because of these risks, balancing the need for open research environments with stringent security measures is challenging, especially with ever-changing technological innovations and a shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals.
In the presentation “Cybersecurity and You (Why Is It Important and What Is My Role?)”, Sharkirah and Catharine from the OIT-Information Security Office emphasize that cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. While technical controls like MFA and firewalls are essential, strengthening the human element (us!) is equally important as attackers increasingly target humans through social engineering. Data shows that high staff awareness reduces successful attacks, lowers cyber-insurance costs, and ensures regulatory compliance. Plus, practicing good cybersecurity habits at work can benefit personal digital safety, too. Learn how cultivating a robust cybersecurity culture through awareness, training, compliance, and strong leadership can make a massive difference in our lives!
Please click below for the full presentation files:
Cybersecurity + You (What is my role)_v2.3p
Catharine Tarquinio
Information Security Awareness and Training Analyst
Sharkirah E. Foote
Information Security Compliance and Training Manager