Use your work laptop
Avoid mixing private and work-related IT environments with each other. Hence, avoid using your private computer for work tasks and do not use your work computer for private business.
When using your private computer for work purposes
If you have to use your private computer for work purposes, you have the opportunity to download certain software on it.
You can install Skype on private devices to call and participate in virtual meetings.
Instructions for installing Skype for business
You can also install the Office suite from O365. See instructions in the link below.
Log in through o365.umu.se.
Instructions for installing Office 365
If you need other software on your private computer to complete your work, please consult your IT contact to find out what solutions are possible.
Keep your computer and other equipment updated
Make sure your computer is updated as soon as updates are available. Do not snooze or postpone restarts of your computer.
Updates are important as they remove potential vulnerabilities. If someone was to take advantage of your device's vulnerability, it can result in important data on your computer falling into the wrong hands or your account details being stolen.
If you work remotely, make sure to check that the router and other equipment you are using have been recently updated.
Be particularly careful with attachments and links via e-mail and other sources
Cyber criminals use the current situation to their advantage. Viruses, malware and ransomware are now being spread via email and social media disguised to contain information regarding the coronavirus and similar. Remember to check all links and if you are at all suspicious, refrain from clicking the link.
Be aware of how you process information
When working remotely, the risk of exposing sensitive information is far higher than at the workplace. Be particularly careful about what type of information you are processing remotely and ensure that you can process the data correctly.
Doublecheck all financial transactions
Watch out for scams in which people pretend to be a colleague asking for a quick favour, often to pay an invoice or buy a gift voucher. Always phone the person back up and verify that the message you have received is legitimate. When making payments, you must always follow established routines for invoice processing.
Use a VPN if necessary
If you work remotely, you can access most systems and software, for instance your email, Cambro, Moodle, Skype and many other programs, without any further measures needed.
However, you may need to use a VPN, a virtual private network, to gain access to certain resources. For instance, shared servers or systems with restricted access for users off campus.
Read more about VPN and how it works (only in Swedish)
Help and support
Servicedesk is available to help you. If necessary, we can also help you remotely.
Contact details for Servicedesk
IRT (the Incident Response Team) is actively working to prevent, detect and investigate IT security incidents at Umeå University. Contact IRT if you have any queries by emailing irt@umu.se