Important reminder: Cybersecurity awareness and best practices

Dear Members of the Harvard Community,

We are writing to share an important reminder about cybersecurity and the role each of us plays in protecting Harvard’s systems and data. This message comes at a critical time, following recent data breaches at peer institutions and other organizations. 

Many security incidents begin when attackers deceive people into revealing confidential information or taking an action that compromises security. Even the most advanced systems are vulnerable if someone is misled. A few simple habits make a big difference:

  • Confirm help desk communications. Harvard IT support teams, including the HUIT Service Desk and local IT support, will never initiate a call without referencing an existing ticket or support request. If you receive an unexpected call, hang up and reach out through your known support channels (for example, the HUIT Service Desk at 617-495-7777 or your local IT support), to confirm the ticket before proceeding.  
  • Pause before you click. Be especially cautious with unexpected emails requesting sensitive information or asking you to reset your password, even if they appear to come from colleagues or trusted partners.
  • Verify unusual requests. If something seems off, do not use the contact information provided in the message or call. Verify the request through a trusted source before responding.
  • Report suspicious activity right away.
    • Forward suspicious emails to phishing@harvard.edu.
    • Call the HUIT Service Desk at 617-495-7777 to report suspicious text messages, phone calls or other contact methods.

If you believe you may have unintentionally shared sensitive information, contact HUIT immediately. Quick action is the best way to limit potential harm.

While technology and security systems play a key role, your vigilance is equally important in helping to keep Harvard’s information safe. If something doesn’t look or feel right, such as an unexpected message, a strange system alert, or an unusual request, please take a moment to verify it.  

Thank you for your continued care and commitment to helping protect Harvard’s systems and data.  

With appreciation,

Meredith Weenick
Executive Vice President

Klara Jelinkova
Vice President and University Chief Information Officer

Michael Tran Duff  
University Chief Information Security and Data Privacy Officer