Information Security

Protecting Confidential Information

"Protected information" is an umbrella term used at CSU, Chico to describe information linked to an individual person's identity, such as their Social Security number, driver's license data, and credit card or bank account information (sometimes called Personally-Identifiable Information, or PII(opens in new window)) which can be used to facilitate identity theft. 

  • Data Protection(opens in new window) - Learn more about the steps CSU, Chico takes to protect the confidential data stored on its networks.

  • Annual Credit Report Monitoring(opens in new window) - You can help to protect yourself against identity theft by reviewing your credit report at least once a year.

  • Vulnerability Management and Scanning(opens in new window) - Vulnerability scans provide critical information to the Information Security Office and management as part of the risk assessment process for campus systems.

  • Antivirus Software - CSU, Chico uses Microsoft Defender to help protect your campus computer from defending against viruses and other malware. Microsoft Defender is installed automatically on campus-managed computers and is automatically included on personally-owned Windows 10/11 PC computers used at home. For personally owned Apple computers used at home, free tools such as AVAST, Sophos, and Malwarebytes can also protect against viruses and malware.

  • Encryption(opens in new window)Encryption converts data into a secure form that can be safely moved around and helps CSU, Chico meet its obligations under various data protection laws and policies. One of the most effective ways to protect personally identifiable or other confidential information stored on a computer is to encrypt it.