Data Security Procedures, Computer System Security Requirements

The College maintains a computer security system that provides at a minimum to the extent technically feasible:

Secure user authentication protocols including:

a) control of user IDs and other identifiers; 

b) a reasonably secure method of assigning and selecting passwords, or use of unique identifier technologies, such as biometrics or token devices; 

c) control of data security passwords to ensure that such passwords are kept in a location and/or format that does not compromise the security of the data they protect; 

d) restricting access to active Users and active User accounts only; and 

e) blocking access to user identification after multiple unsuccessful attempts to gain access or the limitation placed on access for the particular system.

Secure access control measures that:

a) restrict access to records and files containing confidential information to those who need such information to perform their job duties; and 

b) assign unique identifications plus passwords, which are not vendor supplied default passwords, to each person with computer access, that are reasonably designed to maintain the integrity of the security of the access controls.

Encryption of all transmitted records and files containing personally identifiable information:

a) Encryption of all data containing personally identifiable information (PII) to be transmitted wirelessly; 

b) Reasonable monitoring of systems, for unauthorized use of or access to PII; 

c) Encryption of all PII stored on laptops or other portable devices; and 

d) For files containing PII on a system that is connected to the Internet, reasonably up-to-date firewall protection and operating system security patches, reasonably designed to maintain the integrity of PII.

Reasonably current versions of system security agent software which:

a) must include malware protection and reasonably current patches and virus definitions, or a version of such software that can still be supported with up-to-date patches and virus definitions; and 

b) must be set to receive the most current security updates on a regular basis.

Education and training of employees:

Training on the proper use of the computer security system and the importance of data security, including annually required IT Security online training.