Microsoft, Apple and Linux are constantly protecting their operating systems against hackers and cyber criminals. They do so by issuing updates. They do not release any updates for their outdated systems anymore, which makes these systems vulnerable. It means that viruses and hackers can easily enter your computer and the university network, even if you have an anti-virus programme installed.

Up-to-date operating system

To protect yourself and the university, it is very important:

1. that you work with Windows 11 / MacOS 13 or a newer operating system. 
2. that you install the latest security updates.

Is your operating system not up-to-date?

Are you working with Windows 10 or an older operating system? From October 2025 Microsoft will no longer provide free software updates, technical support or security patches for Windows 10. Soon, you will also no longer be able to log on to the university network with Windows 10 (or older). We urge you to upgrade to Windows 11 as soon as possible.

• Do you have an ISSC-managed university laptop with an outdated operating system?
  • Make an appointment as soon as possible for the upgrade of your laptop via this form: ISSC Windows 11 migratie / Windows 11 migration.
  • Make sure that you take all preparatory steps before the upgrade: see Leiden University is upgrading to Windows 11: what will this mean for you?
• Do you have an ISSC-managed university desktop with an outdated operating system? Please notify your ICT-contact person as soon as possible.
  • Make sure that you take all preparatory steps before the upgrade: see Leiden University is upgrading to Windows 11: what will this mean for you?
• Do you work with a self-managed laptop or desktop, or with a personal PC? Then you are personally responsible for the installation of Windows 11. For more information, go to End of support for Windows 10, Windows 8.1, and Windows 7 | Microsoft Windows

Laptop too old for updates

Is your PC or laptop too old for the installation of Windows 11? Please contact your ICT-contact person for advice.

Anti-virus software:

• helps to prevent you downloading harmful files.
• keeps hackers out of your network.
• prevents your from visiting websites that are not safe.

So please ensure that you have an active, up-to-date and good quality anti-virus programme.

ISSC-issued work laptop

Your university laptop already has an anti-virus programme installed. If you use the search function (magnifying glass, below left) you will find the anti-virus programme that is operational on your laptop.

Anti-virus software on your personal computer

Are you working from home on your own PC? Surfspot offers a range of anti-virus programmes which you van purchase for a reduced price. Log in to Surfspot using your ULCN account.

If you can use a Wifi network without a password, then the network is not secure and you are not allowed to use it for your work. What should you do if you DO wish to connect to the internet?

Secure your home network

Secure your Wifi at home with a WPA2 password. You do so via your router. Contact your internet provider for support. You can change your standard (and easy to crack) password on your router. Find tips for strong passwords here. 

Helpdesk

Do you need help? Please contact the ISSC helpdesk.

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) sends your internet activities through a coded ‘tunnel’ and creates a new IP address with every connection. This gives your better protection and anonymity. Install a VPN, such as eduVPN, for secure internetting on a (public) Wifi network. 

If outdated versions of programmes are running on your computer, then hackers or other malicious intruders can use these for a cyber attack. Therefore, be sure to update your programmes at least once a month. 

ISSC work laptop

Do you have a laptop issued by the university? Normally the updates will be installed when you are connected to the university network. If you are working from home, you need to update the software manually. 

Save files to OneDrive. This is thealternative to the P-drive. (If you want to upload files from your P-drive to OneDrive, please ask the helpdesk)

Storing files on your own computer

If you decide to store files on your own computer, secure your work with a password. Be extra careful if you are working with sensitive information and if you are sharing your computer with others.

Find out how to create a strong password.

Always lock your workstation

Lock your workstation. To do so on a Windows computer, use the following keyboard shortcut: Windows + L(ock). Make a habit of this, regardless whether you are working from home or at the office. Housemates, children and pets have a tendency to press random keys, be it intentionally or unintentionally. This can be irritating, but can also mean that sensitive information becomes publicly available.

Online meetings and chats

Use recommended solutions such as Teams. Be extra alert if external parties are participating in or hosting an online meeting. Do not share confidential information in online meetings or chats.

Read more tips on reducing privacy risks.

The corona outbreak has caused an increase in phishing attacks. With systems and people more vulnerable than normal, hackers are having a field day.

Unexpected request? Do not click!

If you receive an unexpected mail with a link requesting personal details or are phoned by someone asking for personal details, this could be phishing.

• Do not respond to the request.
• Do not click on links.
• Never enter your account details.
• Notify the ISSC helpdesk of potential phishing and cybercrime.

Read more about preventing and reporting phishing.

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More of our staff are using WhatsApp for their work, which means, unfortunately, that we are giving this commercial organisation a glimpse at our business operations. We would therefore like to draw your attention to Signal, so you know there is a safe alternative to WhatsApp.

Signal

Signal uses encryption, doesn’t record any metadata and is open source. It only needs your ‘Device ID’ to work and records no metadata whatsoever. It is owned by the non-profit Signal Foundation 

Signal at the University

Although using WhatsApp (for private use) poses no immediate risk, the number of Signal users has increased dramatically in 2021, ever since WhatsApp announced it would be changing its terms and conditions.

Download Signal

IOS 
Android