Sent: 2023-03-10
From: EIU
To: Various Recipients
Subject: EIU Computer Configuration Changes
In order to enhance EIU’s cyber security efforts, ITS is in the process of removing individual users as administrators on their local computers. This will remove users’ ability to install new programs/drivers, but also prevent users from accidentally installing malware and other harmful software.
Just last year, 82 percent of all cyber incidents started with a human element, which is why EIU’s cyber security insurance is requiring us to remove local administrators. When a user is not a local admin, it not only protects the University, but it also protects our users from being part of an unwitting start of a cyber incident.
We will be using an application called BeyondTrust to make this a smooth transition. The program will allow users to install applications that have been approved by ITS. If you need an application installed that is not already approved, you can call the ITS Help Desk at (217)581-4357. ITS will evaluate the application to ensure it is free from malware and that the University is legally licensed to run the software. This review process will be done as promptly as possible with most being approved within 3 business days.
Over the next few months, IT will be working with each departmental leader/chair to find the best time to deploy this change in your area. This process will be done on a rolling basis rather than removing all users at once.
We understand this is a significant change in process and we will do our best to make this technology change as smooth as possible.
We’ve created a FAQ to address many common concerns about this deployment.
https://www.eiu.edu/panthertech/beyondtrust.php
If you have any additional questions or concerns, please contact us by emailing support@eiu.edu
Thank you once again for your commitment to cyber security. Together we can continue to keep our campus community and its data safe.
