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Weekly Feed—October 21, 2024

Contents:

Help Us Improve KSU Technology Services!

Your voice matters! Share your thoughts on KSU's IT services to help us improve your experience. Plus, we have some awesome swag to give away!

Join us on Wednesday, Oct. 30, between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. in the Carmichael Student Center (Kennesaw).

What will you do?

  • Spill: Share your perspective on KSU technology
  • Spin: Spin the "prize wheel" for a reward

Can't make it this week? No problem! We'll have additional "spill and spin" events throughout Fall 2024:

  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. in the lobby of the Academic Learning Center (Kennesaw)
  • Thursday, Nov. 14, between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. in the lobby of the Atrium Building (Marietta)

Mark your calendars, and let’s make IT at KSU even better—together!

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AI at KSU: Resources for Students, Faculty, and Staff

Check out UITS's AI resources for harnessing AI to improve Owls’ academic and administrative experiences while prioritizing ethics and data security at every step. Here, you will find the following:

AI is continuously advancing, and UITS's materials will evolve, as well. Check back often for the latest updates and information!

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KSU VPN: Work Securely From Anywhere

Do you ever work remotely? Ensure your connection to KSU's online resources is secure by using KSU's Virtual Private Network (VPN). Whether you're at home, traveling, or working from a coffee shop, the VPN allows you to safely access the same network services available on campus.

Follow these instructions to begin using the VPN.

By using the VPN, you can protect sensitive information, maintain data privacy, and experience seamless access to KSU systems, just as if you were on campus. It’s an easy way to stay connected and secure—from anywhere in the world.

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Artificial Intelligence, Security, and You

This information was provided by the Security Awareness Company. Download the PDF version.

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes a larger part of everyone’s lives, it’s important to understand the threat it poses to security. Let’s review what AI is, how it can be used for malicious purposes, and what it means for security.

AI Defined

The concept of AI refers to computers and machines that perform tasks normally requiring human intelligence. AI systems work by being trained on large amounts of data that is then analyzed and used to make decisions. There are many forms and functions of AI. Generative AI, for example, can generate content such as text, images, audio, and video.

AI-Powered Attacks

As AI evolves, so too will AI-powered attacks. A few examples of how criminals use AI include:

  • Given that AI can create realistic video or audio recordings, attackers can use it to generate content that appears to come from a trusted individual saying or doing something they actually aren't.

  • A small sample of someone's voice can be used to generate speech that sounds like a real person, which can trick people into believing they are talking with someone they know.

  • Through AI automation, social engineers can cast a wide net and increase the volume of their attacks. This process requires less effort on the attacker’s part and means they can target a greater number of people.

AI, Security, and You

Cybercriminals and scammers are already using AI to their advantage. Here’s what you can do to identify and avoid AI-powered attacks at work and home:

  • The power of AI means that everyone needs to take extra precautions as a part of their daily routines. For example, when handling emails, thoroughly inspect the entire message and never open random links or attachments.

  • Even if AI helps attackers hide their intentions, there will still be warning signs. Stay alert for common indicators of scams, such as threatening language, urgent messages, and suspicious requests.

  • The zero trust model assumes everything is untrustworthy until proven otherwise — a great approach to all things security. At a basic level, never assume someone is who they claim, regardless of how they engage with you.

  • Always following policy is a simple, effective way to maintain security. If you’re allowed to use AI tools for work, be sure you understand your organization’s guidelines for doing so.

Friendly reminder: The USG requires all faculty, staff, and student assistants to complete Fall Cybersecurity Awareness Training by Oct. 31. The training takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. 

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Cybersecurity Presentation: AI Voice Automated Cloning Scams

Tuesday, Oct, 22, 11–11:30 a.m. via Teams—Register on Owl Life

Did your distressed mother just call you for help? Are you certain it was your mother? Artificial Intelligence technology is advancing rapidly and available to a large audience. Not all uses of AI are to make our lives easier. Learn how to spot AI voice scams in this engaging talk by Dr. Humayun Zafar (Professor of Information Security and Assurance).

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This Week's Technology Workshops

UITS offers a variety of technology workshops each semester—this week's offerings are listed below. Check out our complete selection!

We are also happy to provide one-on-one and/or group (or class) technology training by request. 

AI at KSU: Getting Started with Microsoft Copilot

Tuesday, Oct. 22, 10–11 a.m.—Register in OwlTrain

Join us for an engaging workshop delving into the exciting world of Microsoft Copilot, a powerful AI tool that can generate text, images, and summaries. Learn best practices for using Copilot securely to protect your data as you ask Copilot to answer questions, generate creative content, and even proofread your writing. Whether you’re looking to write a compelling story, create a unique image, or simply make your day-to-day tasks easier, this workshop will help you master AI at KSU!

Qualtrics Surveys

Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2–3 p.m.—Register in OwlTrain

Learn to create surveys and generate reports with Qualtrics, a web-based tool that empowers you to collect, measure, and organize data. 

Omni CMS

Friday, Oct. 25, 10–11:30 a.m.—Register in OwlTrain

Get acquainted with Omni, the Content Management System used by Kennesaw State University websites. This hands-on workshop will guide you through accessing Omni CMS, editing webpages, and adding content, ensuring you can effectively manage your website.

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