Resources and Services
Keeping Our Digital Community Secure
Information Security protects the campus community from cyber threats using a range of systems, tools, and methods that are transparent to users. However, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Every member of the campus community plays a role in maintaining the safety and integrity of University networks, systems, and data. Just one click on a malicious link can put everyone at risk.
To help reduce these risks, Information Security provides faculty, staff, and students with tools and services designed to strengthen device security and safeguard sensitive information.
Departmental ID
Information Security is responsible for approving Network IDs for departmental use. Departments typically request these IDs to avoid the need for individuals to use their personal or university IDs for conducting University business.
Create Departmental Network ID Accounts
SIUC departments may request a Departmental Network ID under special circumstances. This ID must be directly linked to a full-time employee and is intended for departmental business and communications.
To obtain a Departmental Network ID, the department is required to submit a request to Information Security. The request should be approved and signed by the requestor's supervisor (preferably the Campus Unit Head) and submitted to the Director of Information Security for approval. This Departmental Network ID will be maintained for as long as it is directly linked to a currently verifiable faculty or staff member or until otherwise notified by the requesting department.
"Change of Owner" of a Departmental Network ID
SIUC departments can request a "Change of Owner" for an existing Departmental Network ID. To do this, departments will need to submit a Departmental Network ID form. The proposed owner (Requestor) must submit the form and include the existing Departmental Network ID and associated email address.
Disable a Departmental Network ID
In situations where a department is no longer using a Departmental Network ID, they can request that it be deleted by submitting a Departmental Network ID form.
Vendor Departmental Network ID
SIUC departments may request a "Vendor" ID for the purpose of giving network access to a vendor on a temporary basis. Departments are required to submit a Departmental Network ID form for this. In these instances, an SIUC employee should be listed as a "Requestor". Vendors will not receive an SIUC email.
Shared Mailbox
A shared mailbox allows multiple users to read and send email from a single email address. It also includes a shared calendar, making it easy for teams to coordinate meetings and track events.
Shared mailboxes are a convenient solution for departments or groups that need a unified email presence—such as for handling customer inquiries, support requests, or other group communications—without cluttering individual inboxes.
Once access is granted, the shared mailbox automatically appears in the user’s Outlook desktop app or web portal, listed under its display name with its own set of folders.
LastPass
LastPass enhances both convenience and cybersecurity by allowing users to access all their accounts with a single, secure master password. Once usernames and passwords are saved in LastPass, they’re readily available when needed—no more guessing passwords, getting locked out of accounts, or resorting to sticky notes under keyboards.
In addition to storing credentials securely, LastPass helps protect against phishing attempts by safely autofilling passwords only on verified websites. It can also generate strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts, reducing the risk of credential-based attacks.
Incorporating LastPass into your daily routine adds a powerful layer of protection against malicious links and login theft.
MOVEit
MOVEit is a secure tool for saving, storing, and sharing sensitive information. Simply add text or files to to MOVEit, and then send an encrypted notification to the intended recipient.
The recipient will be alerted that a file is ready for them and can retrieve it directly from MOVEit. The encryption and decryption happen automatically—no extra steps required from you or the recipient.
Importantly, recipients do not need their own MOVEit account to access and open the files securely.
VPN Service
The University’s VPN service enables secure remote access to the campus network, allowing you to work safely from off campus. Access is granted only to users who have requested and received VPN credentials. Without an active VPN account, University systems cannot be accessed remotely.
SPLUNK
Splunk is a powerful platform designed to search, monitor, and analyze machine-generated data in real time. It enables our organization to collect, index, and visualize data from diverse sources—including applications, servers, and network devices—providing valuable operational intelligence and security insights.
Key features of Splunk include log management, event correlation, and alerting, making it an indispensable tool for IT operations, cybersecurity, and business analytics. Leveraging advanced machine learning and AI-driven analytics, Splunk helps detect anomalies, troubleshoot issues, and optimize system performance with greater efficiency.
Risk Assessment
Microsoft Authenticator
SIUC employees and students have access to a variety of services and resources that cyber-criminals also want. To enhance security for the entire campus community, the University implemented Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) in 2020.
When logging into certain SIUC systems or accessing specific resources, you’ll be prompted to verify your identity. Using the Microsoft Authenticator app, you simply enter a two-digit code to confirm your login. This tool also offers the option to set up passwordless sign-in, allowing you to enter your email address and verify your identity via a randomized code—making access easier and more secure. This is especially helpful since SIUC passwords are longer and more complex to protect your accounts.
Learn More About Microsoft Authenticator
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does SIUC use Multi-Factor Authentication?
Like many organizations, SIUC faces constant cyber threats. Implementing MFA for faculty, staff, and students in 2020-2021 has significantly reduced account compromises. We remain committed to following industry standards and best practices to protect our campus community.
During setup, I'm prompted for a phone number or device I no longer have access to. What do I need to do?
Please contact SalukiTech at 618-453-5155 or start a live chat with us on the SalukiTech website (during business hours). We can remove this phone number or device from your account so that you can complete the MFA setup.
How often will I need to setup MFA?
Setting up your device is typically a one-time process. You’ll only need to do it again if you change or lose your phone.
Can I still use SMS texting or phone calls for MFA?
To maintain stronger security, phone call verification has been disabled and SMS texting is discouraged. We highly recommend using the Microsoft Authenticator app, which is convenient and easy since most people carry a mobile device. If you prefer not to use a mobile app, hardware options are available (see below).
What are the alternatives if I can’t or don’t want to use the Microsoft Authenticator app?
Hardware tokens like YubiKey can be used as a secure alternative. These devices plug into your computer’s USB port or connect via NFC on compatible phones. You can purchase or bring your own FIDO2 token and link it to your account by following these instructions: