Dear Faculty and Students,

Recently, the Campus Network Center has detected multiple cybersecurity incidents where personal computers were infected with viruses due to downloading and using unauthorized VPNs (circumvention software) and other software from unverified sources. These incidents not only pose direct threats to the data security and financial safety of faculty and students but may also lead to the spread of viruses within the campus network, compromising overall network stability.

To safeguard the vital interests of every faculty member and student and strengthen the campus cybersecurity defenses, we hereby issue the following urgent reminders and action proposals:

I. Cease Using Illegal VPNs and Software from Unverified Sources

1. Recognize the severe risks of illegal VPNs: Most illegal VPN software is bundled with Trojan viruses and backdoor programs. Once installed, your device may be remotely controlled, leading to theft of personal privacy data (such as contacts, photos, files), bank account information, or even university system credentials. Existing cases show individuals have suffered financial losses, and more severe consequences may include legal violations and threats to national security.

2. Avoid “cracked versions” and “portable versions” traps: Download links claiming to offer free access to paid software, game hacks, or academic resource cracking tools are the most common virus transmission routes. Always download software from official websites or legitimate app stores.

II. Master Basic Personal Cybersecurity Practices

Please review and implement the following measures to protect your devices:

· Install and update security software: Ensure your computer has genuine antivirus software (e.g., Huorong, 360 Security Guard, Tencent PC Manager) installed. Enable real-time protection, regularly update virus databases, and perform full-disk scans.

· Strengthen account passwords: Set strong passwords for critical accounts using “letters + numbers + special characters,” and change them regularly. Avoid using the same password across all platforms.

· Back up important data: Immediately back up key files like graduation theses, experimental data, and course projects to reliable cloud storage or external hard drives to prevent loss.

III. Actively Seek Assistance

Cybersecurity concerns everyone. If you notice:

· Abnormal device behavior (e.g., frequent pop-ups, lagging, file loss).

· Suspicious software download links, phishing emails, or Wi-Fi hotspots on campus.

Take immediate action:

1. Disconnect your device from the network to prevent virus spread.

2. Contact your school's IT service desk for professional assistance.

IT Services Office

Hotline: 0769-21183038 / 13728453548

Email: it.servicedesk@cityu-dg.edu.cn