Another tip in a series provided by the Offices of Information Security, Information Systems & Computing and Audit, Compliance & Privacy

Much of Penn’s workforce recently shifted to working remotely due to COVID-19, with many people using home computers to access University resources. You may be working using your local home system, accessing a virtual desktop hosted elsewhere or even connecting to an office system using remote desktop software. No matter how you work, you should ensure you are working as securely as possible, without exposing your home working environment or University data to undue risk.

The University has tools and guidance to help you work more securely. Basics include:

• Protect any equipment you use to conduct Penn business. The University makes virus protection, spyware/adware protection, password management and other software available for use on your home computer. See the supported software page: https://www.isc.upenn.edu/how-to/current-supported-computing-products
• Avoid sending sensitive information via email. The recent One Step Ahead tip on safe digital sharing provides more details on how to remain secure when you collaborate electronically: https://almanac.upenn.edu/articles/one-step-ahead-beyond-email-safe-digital-sharing-and-collaboration
• Familiarize yourself with the University Client VPN. If you require secure remote access to PennNet, the University now has a VPN (virtual private network) connection available for use. For more information on how the service works and when to use it, see: https://www.isc.upenn.edu/university-client-vpn

For additional information and guidance on working from home from various University departments, including additional security tips and Penn-specific COVID-19 information, visit: https://www.isc.upenn.edu/remote-work-tools-guidelines

For additional tips, see the One Step Ahead link on the Information Security website: https://www.isc.upenn.edu/security/news-alerts#One-Step-Ahead