IT Services: Security
Help Keep Our Data Secure
More than ever, information security is at the forefront, and when it comes to information security and privacy, everyone at HWS plays a part. There has been a significant increase in cyberattacks specifically targeted at colleges and universities by criminals looking to steal personal information, money, and academic research data.
To learn more about how to protect data, please visit these helpful articles:
- Security Habits for Everyone
- Password Best Practices (change password recommendation to 12 characters in TDX Article)
- Phishing
- Staying Safe on Social Networks
- Keeping Malicious Software Off Your Computer
- Protecting your Computer & Data
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) provides a layer of security by tying your credentials to your device, like sending verification codes to your smartphone. You will be prompted to verify your identity once MFA is activated for a particular application or web service. Once your identity has been verified, you will be granted access to the application or web service.
Managing your HWS Credentials
The myaccount.hws.edu site allows you to manage your HWS credentials and set MFA options. When you log into the system for the first time, you will need to update the following information:
- Knowledge Based Questions – these are security questions that help the system confirm your identity if you've forgotten your password and need to reset it.
- Recovery E-mail - this is an e-mail address, other than your HWS e-mail, that provides an alternate method for the system to confirm your identity.
If you've provided a mobile phone number in PeopleSoft, the system will automatically populate it, which is an additional way to confirm your identity. If you are an employee and don't know how to update your PeopleSoft information, please see the instructions on the HWS Human Resources site. Instructions for registering with myaccount.hws.edu are available here.