Office of the Chancellor
To the campus community:
Computer security breaches are serious problems that can lead to identity theft, illegal financial transactions, and disruption of the university's business processes. More than 50 times per week, UCCS is subjected to a variety of computer-related threats.
At CU-Boulder, thousands of names, social security numbers, addresses and medical files have fallen into the wrong hands as a result of at least four computer hacking incidents. Fines of several million dollars are possible.
In any breaches involving credit card numbers base fines of $500,000 can be levied plus $28 per transaction and $500 per card.
As a result of these threats, and the serious problems that can result if our campus computer security is breached, I am asking for your assistance in complying with new Information Technology policy guidelines.
Effective immediately, all departments that have established computer data servers that operate outside of the campus Information Technology offices must register these servers by contacting Jerry Wilson,jwilson@uccs.eduor 262-3594. By working cooperatively with the IT Department, it is possible to ensure that these servers are compatible with the university's network and that accepted computer security criteria are followed.
Departments considering installation of data servers must contact IT to arrange a meeting where network criteria are reviewed and an agreement reached about appropriate security procedures.
As individual computer users, we are required to download the latest virus protection software available free of charge from the IT Department.
By following these simple steps, I believe we can make progress in ensuring that our computer networks, and the sensitive information contained on them, remain secure.
If you have questions about the registration process, or would like to set an appointment with IT staff members, please contact Jerry Wilson after Wednesday, Nov. 2.
Respectfully,
Pam Shockley-Zalabak
Chancellor