Your tablet, smart phone, or e-reader is easy to use around campus because it is portable. However, it also carries a risk of being lost, stolen or misplaced. In addition, such devices may have weak authentication mechanisms that can be compromised or easily disabled. The risk to you and The University of South Florida is even greater if the device can access and store confidential data, or what the University has defined as sensitive data. See the USF Health Standards and Policies

In order to help mitigate the risk, we provide guidance on actions you should take to protect your own data and that of others.

Airwatch

USF Health requires all USF owned mobile devices to have Airwatch mobile device management software installed. Contact Technology Services for installation. This software enables departments to customize software and policy needs for their department to be upload to their devices. See Airwatch for more information on this software.

General Security

• Password protect your device and enable auto-lock. Choose the strongest password that your device can support.
• Consider using an image that provides a contact point should someone find your device and wish to return it. For example, the “If Found Lock Screen” for Apple products.
• Enable a remote wipe feature, if available. This may include features that will delete stored data on your mobile device if a password is entered incorrectly after a certain number of times. Check with your mobile device provider for specific information concerning your device.
• Follow standard security protocols, such as making sure all operating system and application updates and patches are installed.
• Report lost, stolen, or misplaced mobile devices to the police immediately. If your mobile device contained USF sensitive data Technology Services or call 813-974-6288 option 2 immediately.

Transmission Security

Disable wireless access, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, etc., when not in use to prevent unauthorized wireless access to the device.