Dear UCLA Community,
In response to the recent fires affecting our community, vendors such as Spectrum and Starlink are providing free WiFi to impacted households. While these services are essential for staying connected during emergencies, they can also introduce potential security risks. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe while using public or emergency WiFi networks:Tips for Safe WiFi Connectivity:
- Verify the Network Name: Ensure the WiFi name matches the service provider’s official network. Be cautious of fake networks designed to mimic legitimate ones.
- Turn Off Auto-Connect: Disable the auto-connect feature on your devices to avoid accidentally joining unsecured networks.
- Disable File Sharing: Prevent unauthorized access to your files by turning off file-sharing features on your device.
- Use a VPN: Whenever possible, use UCLA’s VPN (virtual private network) to encrypt your internet traffic and add an extra layer of security.
- Check for HTTPS: Only visit websites that use HTTPS (look for the padlock symbol in the browser address bar) to ensure your data is encrypted.
- Avoid Accessing Sensitive Information: Refrain from conducting financial transactions, entering personal data, or accessing sensitive accounts over public WiFi.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Secure your accounts with 2FA or multi-factor authentication wherever possible.
- Strengthen Your Passwords: Now is a great time to review your passwords. Ensure they are long, unique, and difficult to guess.
These simple actions can significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks while keeping you connected during this challenging time.If you have questions or need support, please reach out to (310) 267-HELP (4357) or help@it.ucla.edu.
Thank you for staying vigilant and safe.
