Small Steps Make A Big Difference
Northeastern is participating in Data Privacy Week, a global initiative emphasizing the importance of safeguarding personal information. The Office of Information Security is hosting fun and informative events all week from January 27-31, 2025.
Reel in security tips by joining the Fishing for Phishing scavenger hunt; participate in a critical conversation on data privacy and AI ethics lead by information security experts; and show off your cyber humor with a meme contest to win prizes.
Day 1: Fishing for Phishing
Join this interactive phishing game and learn how to spot common phishing scams while winning fun prizes!
Data Privacy Week kicks off with a splash! Visit Snell Library in Boston for Fishing for Phishing where you can test your cybersecurity knowledge. Participate in a fun game to “catch” tips on identifying phishing attempts and staying vigilant against scams. Prizes include candy, gift cards, and a Northeastern swag for the top participant.
Date & Time
Monday, January 27 from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ET
Day 2: AI Governance Talk
Join information security experts Alexis Goltra, Chief Privacy Officer and Senior Privacy Attorney, and John Clarke, OIS Privacy Analyst, for an engaging conversation about the role of AI in data privacy and personal data protection. This talk will cover essential topics such as:
- How AI influences data privacy policies.
- Best practices for protecting your personal data in the digital age.
- The balance between innovation and ethical data usage.
Date & Time
Tuesday, January 28 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ET / 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. PT / 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. GT
Link
A recap of the AI Governance and Privacy Talk will be shared soon!
Day 3: Cybersecurity Meme Contest
Got a knack for memes? Enter the Cybersecurity Meme Contest and show off your creativity while spreading awareness. Share your best cybersecurity joke for a chance to win.
Contest Info
- Create a meme related to phishing, scams, or online safety.
- Submit your meme by midnight local time on Friday, January 31, 2025.
- IT Services teams will evaluate submissions looking for creativity and the best use of meme content to select the winner.
- Winners will be announced on Friday, February 7, 2025.
- Top submissions will be featured on the IT Services site and LinkedIn and the winner will receive a great prize!
Submit your entry
Submit this entry form between January 29-31 with your meme attached to enter the contest.
Date & Time
Entries will be accepted from 12 a.m. local time on Wednesday, January 29 until midnight local time on Friday, January 31, 2025.
Day 4: Data Privacy in Everyday Life
Easy, everyday habits to keep your data secure—because protecting your privacy doesn’t have to be complicated.
Did you know that small changes in your daily habits can significantly improve your data privacy? Try these simple tips:
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for extra security.
- Review app permissions. Does that app really need access to your location?
- Use a password manager to keep your credentials unique and secure.
Date & Time
You’re encouraged to do this anytime on Thursday, January 30 and periodically in the future.
Day 5: Digital Clean-Up Day
Clean up your digital life: Take 10 minutes to clear old accounts and strengthen your digital privacy.
Wrap up Data Privacy Week with a digital clean-up. Take a few minutes to:
- Delete unused accounts and apps.
- Protect data on old devices and prepare for when you switch devices again.
- Review and update privacy settings.
Date & Time
You’re encouraged to do this anytime on Friday, January 31 and periodically in the future.
Don’t forget to submit your Cybersecurity Meme Contest entry form by midnight local time, January 31!