As we start the new year and a new semester, I am filled with optimism for the opportunities that lie ahead. The start of the new year is always a time for reflection and renewal, and this year is no different. At Chapman University, we are committed to continuing our journey toward excellence in all areas, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity.

Over the past year, we have made significant strides in enhancing our security posture. One of our most notable achievements has been the success of our password strengthening project. This initiative, which started in January and continued through the start of the Fall semester, involved resetting passwords for over 13,000 active student, faculty, and staff accounts. The project was effectively managed with outstanding communication and user support, reducing the number of compromised accounts by 95%.

As we move forward, we will continue to prioritize cybersecurity and work diligently to stay ahead of emerging threats. One of our key initiatives for the new semester is to further integrate our cybersecurity practices into the university’s daily operations.

At Chapman, we believe fostering a strong cybersecurity culture is essential to our success. This means making cybersecurity a shared responsibility among all members of our community. We are committed to providing ongoing education and training to ensure that everyone understands the importance of cybersecurity and knows how to protect themselves and the university from potential threats. By promoting a culture of awareness and vigilance, we can create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.

As we embark on this new semester, I encourage everyone to stay vigilant and proactive in maintaining our cybersecurity standards. Together, we can create a safe and secure environment for all members of the Chapman University community. Remember, if you suspect something, report it to abuse@chapman.edu.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication. Here’s to a prosperous and secure New Year!

 

Stay safe, stay vigilant! 

Keith Barros 

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)