Topic of the Week
Welcome to our "Topic of the Week" section, where we spotlight key issues in security, privacy, audit, risk, and compliance. Each week, we look into a relevant topic, offering insights and strategies to help navigating the ever-evolving landscape of regulations and best practices.
Multi-Factor Authentication--What is it, really?
As our article last week mentioned, it’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month! To celebrate, we will talk about various cybersecurity awareness topics during the month of October. This week is all about multi-factor authentication (MFA)--What is it? Why does it matter? Do I seriously need to use it? Let's get right into it.
It’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Y’all!
What a good month: pumpkin spice everything, morning runs that finally let you breathe without 98% humidity, and, of course, Cybersecurity Awareness Month!Every October, for the past 20 years, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has spotlighted simple ways people can protect themselves online. The goal is to show how small, everyday actions reduce risks when we’re online or using connected devices.
TikTok Ban - Update
It is officially fall - that means the color of the leaves are changing, the air is getting more crisp, the sun is setting sooner, and, oh… TikTok isn't getting banned? On September 25, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order that permits TikTok to continue operating in the United States. While this is a step in the right direction (if you like TikTok, and consider this to be the “right” move), it does not completely diminish the possibility of the app facing a nationwide ban.
September is the New New Year: Cyber-Readiness for Back-to-School
Whether you’re starting fresh with new notebooks and planners, or just trying to remember your teaching schedule, the season of sharpened pencils and late-night study and grading sessions is officially here.
Understanding Internal vs. External Audits: Why Internal Audits Matter for Privacy and Security in Higher Education
In today’s higher education environment, there is increasing pressure to safeguard sensitive data and demonstrate compliance with privacy and security standards. From student records and financial data to cutting-edge research, institutions hold a wide range of information that must be protected from unauthorized access, misuse, and breaches. Auditing plays a critical role in this process by helping institutions identify risks, strengthen their security posture, and prepare for compliance obligations.
The Grass Can Be Greener on This Side
A couple of weeks ago, we discussed the consequences that the AI training models have on the environment, and, while the costs are real, it’s just as important to ask: what can we do about it?The reality is uncomfortable: our digital lives come with a rising environmental footprint. Every streamed video, email, or notification consumes electricity. The boom in AI-powered tools adds a new layer, embedding energy-hungry processes into daily routines and placing more strain on the infrastructure that powers them.