How to Secure Your Personal Data on Shared Devices

This article provides essential tips on safeguarding your personal data when using shared devices, such as those found in campus labs and libraries.

• Vanderbilt University Community

  • Faculty and Staff

  • Undergraduate Students

  • Graduate and Professional Students

• VUIT Internal Knowledge  

• Understand the importance of data security.

• Have familiarity with the device’s operating system.

Using shared devices can pose a risk to your personal data. Whether you're using a public computer in a lab or library, it's crucial to take measures to protect your information. This article outlines steps you can take to secure your data effectively.

• Use Your VUnetID and Password

  • When logging into Vanderbilt University-issued devices on campus, including in labs, libraries and other common spaces, always use your VUnetID and password. Do not share your login credentials with anyone else.

• Avoid Saving Passwords

  • Refrain from saving passwords or enabling autofill in web browsers on shared devices. This helps prevent unauthorized access to your accounts.

• Log Out After Use

  • Always log out of your accounts and close the browser when finished. This ensures that your personal information isn't accessible to the next user.

• Clear Browsing Data

  • Before leaving the shared device, clear your browsing history and cookies to remove any stored data. This can usually be done in the browser settings under "Privacy" or "History."

  • See: How to Clear Cache and Cookies

• Be Cautious with Personal Information

  • Avoid entering sensitive personal information (e.g., credit card details, social security numbers) on shared devices, as they may be less secure.

• Use Private Browsing Mode

  • If available, use a private or incognito browsing mode. This mode does not save your browsing history, cookies, or site data.

  • See: How to Open a Private Browsing Window

• Avoid Using Shared Devices for Important Transactions

  • Whenever possible, refrain from conducting sensitive transactions, like online banking or shopping, on shared devices.

• If you forget to log out of your account on a shared workstation, immediately change your password to secure your account.

  • See: How to Change Your VUnetID Password

• If you encounter issues with the device's settings, ask the library or lab staff for assistance or place a Desktop Support Service Request.

• Be aware of your surroundings when using shared devices. Ensure no one is watching as you enter sensitive information.

• Regularly update your passwords and use two-factor authentication where available.

• Cybersecurity

• Cybersecurity Best Practices

• How to Clear Cache and Cookies

• How to Open a Private Browsing Window

• How to Change Your VUnetID Password