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Last updated on Wednesday, June 7, 2017
(VINCENNES) - Anyone who uses a computer needs to know how to protect themselves from cyber-crime. It’s a growing threat that requires vigilance, according to Jaci Lederman, chair of Vincennes University’s Information Technology Department.
She recommends that every computer user make a practice to back up data, refrain from using public Wi-Fi, avoid clicking on links in emails, and reduce their digital footprint.
Incorporating these steps and additional safeguards are part of VU's Certified Secure Computer User course, which Lederman encourages all students to incorporate into their curriculum. The course provides necessary knowledge and skills to protect information assets and mitigate security exposure. "It's a hands-on opportunity for computer users to learn and practice cyber security in both personal and business computer environments," Lederman said.
The certification is offered through a partnership with the International Council of E-Commerce Consultants, also known as EC-Council, the world's largest cyber security technical certification body which operates globally in 145 countries. As an EC-Council accredited trainer, the IT Department at VU has exclusive access to official training materials and the ability to proctor certification exams in the classroom.
"The Certified Secure Computer User certification is an essential credential for every resume," Lederman said. With the CSCU certification, participants develop an understanding and recognition of computer and network security threats, including Identity theft, credit card fraud, online banking phishing scams, viruses and backdoors, email hoaxes, online offenders, loss of confidential information, hacking attacks, and social engineering.
In addition to offering courses in cyber security, Lederman also helped lead a workshop on the topic during VU's professional development days this spring. "With so much news about cyber-attacks, people are aware it is a serious issue, but too few people incorporate effective strategies to protect themselves," Lederman said.
Lederman is a certified EC-Council instructor who will offer the first CSCU course, COMP 298, beginning this fall on VU's Vincennes Campus. She said that course filled very quickly and offerings for spring 2018 are expected to increase to accommodate the need.
Lederman can be reached for more information at jlederman@vinu.edu.
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