Invitation: AI@CI Speaker Series - Responsible AI: A Leadership Imperative

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Dear Campus Community,

We are excited to invite you to the next event in the AI@CI Speaker Series - Responsible AI: A Leadership Imperative, with speaker Joe Sabado, Deputy CIO at UC Santa Barbera.

Date and Time: November 6th |  10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Location: Gateway Hall 1501

You can RSVP by scanning the QR code on the attached flyer or by visiting this link: RSVP.

AI@CI Flyer

We look forward to seeing you there!


Invitation: AI@CI Speaker Series – The Economic Promise of AI

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Dear Campus Community,

We are excited to invite you to AI@CI Speaker Series - The Economic Promise of AI, featuring speaker Dr. Sandeep Krishnamurthy, Inaugural Singelyn Family Dean of the College of Business Administration and the Singelyn Graduate School of Business at Cal Poly Pomona.

Date and Time: September 23rd |  10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Location: Grand Salon

You can RSVP by scanning the QR code on the attached flyer or by visiting this link: RSVP.

AI@CI Speaker Series Flyer

We look forward to seeing you there!


October | CSU Channel Islands is Preparing for Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2025

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October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, an international initiative to educate people about online safety. The theme of this year’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month is Empowering You to Secure 2025 and Beyond. We are planning to host speakers showcasing a variety of security topics.

2025 Cyber Security Month

All sessions will be held in Aliso Hall 150 on Friday, October 3rd, 2025.

Event Schedule (15-minute break between events)

9:30–10:30 AM —  Exploring Cybersecurity Careers with Lessons from the Front Lines | James Villa — Senior Security Consultant, Mandiant 

10:45 AM–11:15 AM — Physical Security of Locks: Cybersecurity Starts at the Door | Loren Fleming and Carlos Miranda

11:30 AM–12:00 PM — InfoSecMap: The Global Nexus for Events & Communities | Martin Villalba — Founder, C13 Security

12:00–1:30 PM — Lunch Break

1:45 PM–2:15 PM — E-Sports Club Presentation | Christopher Hernandez (President) & Nicholas Hernandez (Event Coordinator)

Our Cybersecurity Awareness Month webpage will be regularly updated with more information.

Campus Phone System Upgrade Project

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Smarter Communication is Coming

The campus phone system is undergoing a major upgrade to support more modern and flexible communication while saving the campus money. The current system will reach its end of life in August 2025, making this transition both necessary and timely. The new platform offers improved features and better integration with existing campus tools.

Why Is This Upgrade Happening?

  • Unified Experience: The new system integrates with commonly used productivity tools such as email, calendar, and messaging platforms.
  • Adaptable Use: Designed to support on-campus, hybrid, and remote users.
  • Efficiency: Reduces the need for complex phone infrastructure and lowers maintenance costs.
  • Safety Improvements: Fully supports enhanced emergency calling features to help protect the campus community.

Project Timeline

  • Project Completion: May 5, 2026

What’s Included

  • Transition of all employee and departmental phone lines
  • Number porting to the new platform
  • Replacement of phones in classrooms, public areas, and elevators
  • Training and support for users
  • Integration with emergency calling services

What’s Not Included

  • Personal mobile phone applications
  • Non-campus-managed third-party systems

What to Expect

  • Timely updates on migration schedules
  • Access to training sessions and resources
  • Full support from the campus IT team throughout the transition

Beware of TOAD Attacks

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There has been a recent rise in the number of phishing attacks that incorporate a direct phone call with the target. This technique, known as Telephone-Oriented Attack Delivery (TOAD) often starts by sending the user a phishing email urging them to call a phone number. During the call, attackers pretend to be a legitimate customer service representative and attempt to trick their target into downloading malware or disclosing sensitive information. 

Bad actor performing a TOAD attack

Follow these tips to not fall victim to a TOAD attack:

  • Always verify contact information by cross-referencing the phone number or email address in the message with the official contact details listed on the organization’s website.
  • Never share sensitive information over the phone, including passwords, PINs, or multi-factor authentication (MFA) codes.
  • Be wary of urgent language; TOAD scammers use urgency or threats to push you into acting fast.


Information Security Tips - Security While Gaming

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Playing video games is a fun way to connect and interact with others online. However, the hobby does come with some security risks. Keep these tips in mind to keep your information safe.



1. Make sure the software you download comes from a reputable source. For example, a trusted storefront.

2. Use strong, unique passwords on all your accounts: If a threat actor gets control over one of your accounts, having unique passwords prevents them from getting into all your other accounts. Using a password manager makes the task of remembering all those unique passwords much simpler.

3. Enable Multi-factor Authentication if possible: This provides an additional layer of account security to ensure your information does not fall into the wrong hands.

4. Be wary of suspicious messages delivered to you over chat services. Never provide your account details to anyone.

By following these simple but important tips, you can enjoy gaming while keeping your personal information secure. Staying vigilant about what you download, using strong passwords, enabling extra security measures, and being cautious with in-game communication can go a long way in protecting your digital life and ensuring that you stay safe while enjoying your hobby!

May | CSUCI Info Sec Partners with Oxnard Union High School District to Support AP Computer Science Pathways

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In collaboration with the Oxnard Union High School District, CSUCI's Info Sec Team, helped on the development of pathways for the AP Computer Science classes. 

In collaboration with the Oxnard USD, CSUCI's Info Sec Team, helped on the development of pathways for the AP Computer Science classes.

As a local college colleague with involvement in the Ventura County schools' development of educational pathways, CSUCI’s Info Sec Team was invited to a meeting at the Oxnard Union High School District offices to provide input, along with local industry, collegiate, and other stakeholders, for Oxnard Unified School teachers to begin their curriculum development. 

The district offers a Software Development Pathway, consisting of AP Computer Science Principles, followed by AP Computer Science A (Java Coding).  The purpose of the meeting was to discuss new courses that incorporate more real-world learning, including possible units on app development, machine learning and AI, data, cybersecurity, and multimedia computer skills.


AI: A Day of Discovery - 4/23

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We would like to extend this invitation for you to join us for AI: A Day of Discovery on Wednesday, April 23rd from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM in Broome Library 2330. Explore practical applications of AI and learn how it can improve your workflow and boost efficiency! Join us to uncover the potential of AI in optimizing your work processes!


AI: A Day of Discovery Flier

Click the image above to RSVP!



Security Tips: Cyber Shopping Safely

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The holiday season is here, and so many deals are appearing online. Keeping your data secure is a must, so to stay safe with your online shopping check out these quick tips:

  • Email Ads: The latest deals will start to appear in your inbox. Make sure the sender is who they say they are before clicking.
  • Verify the Site: When trying to find that perfect gift, you never know what online shop you may stumble into. Before signing up and checking out your cart, make sure the store is legitimate and trusted by others.
  • Securely Connect: It is always a good idea to double-check the website URL beginning with “https://” to better secure your information.
  • Beware Scalped Goods: Don’t buy outside of a trusted retail seller to ensure you’re paying the right price for trendy items.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to get just what you were looking for without losing your data. Find more holiday shopping security tips at https://www.staysafeonline.org/articles/safe-online-holiday-shopping.

For more information, contact CSUCI's Information Security Team at infosec@csuci.edu or visit the ITS Information Security website.

Introducing Important Delegation of Authority (DOA) Resources

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Financial Services in partnership with IT Services would like to share two very important resources. The first is the Delegation of Authority webpage. The second is the new DOA Module in CI Financials (CFS).

Delegation of Authority Webpage

The new Delegation of Authority webpage will help educate campus partners on our new DOA structure/process. It covers:  

  1. Delegate responsibilities
  2. History behind the creation of CSU systemwide DOA process
  3. Delegate level definitions and guidelines
  4. Types of transactions that fall under the DOA
  5. Link to the DOA Form & workflow in Adobe Sign
  6. How to query DOA details in CI Financials
  7. Link to view approved DOA Forms
  8. Points of contact for DOA support

DOA Module in CI Financials (CFS)

The new DOA Module in CI Financials (CFS) takes the guesswork out of finding authorized signers. A simple query by Department ID and/or Fund Code may be used to return a list of authorized approvers/signers. 

And this one central repository of campus approvers may also be used to look-up the name of a signature to confirm its authority is valid. Campus partners who do not currently have access to CI Financials (CFS), but who now have a business need to be able to perform queries within the DOA Module are encouraged to speak with their management and visit the CI Financials Support page to begin the process of requesting access to CI Financials (CFS).


Upcoming Windows 11 Upgrade

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We would like to inform you about an upcoming operating system upgrade for Windows campus computers. In the days following the end of our Spring term, the ITS Department will be rolling out Windows 11 to enhance the computing experience across the campus.

Windows 11 Logo

Please note that while we strive to make this transition as smooth as possible, some computers may not be compatible with Windows 11. If your computer falls into this category, you should have received a notification already.

As part of this upgrade, it's crucial to emphasize the importance of backing up your data. We strongly recommend using your campus OneDrive account for this purpose. OneDrive provides a secure and easily accessible cloud storage solution, ensuring that your important files are protected during the upgrade process.

The upgrade process will be automatic, and we anticipate a brief downtime during the installation. The estimated downtime is approximately 30 minutes; however, it could take much longer depending on the specific computer as the system undergoes the necessary updates. We understand the importance of your work, and we appreciate your patience during this period. Your computer will provide you with the option to choose when to restart and apply the update, allowing you to schedule the upgrade at a time that is convenient for you and minimizing any potential disruption to your work.

We understand that change can be challenging, but Microsoft has announced the End of Life for Windows 10 next year, and we believe that Windows 11 will bring improved functionality and enhanced security to your computing experience.

If you encounter any questions or problems with the upgrade, please contact the ITS Help Desk for assistance at (805)-437-8552 or by submitting an ITS Service Request.

Thank you for your cooperation as we work towards providing you with the latest and most secure computing environment.

(Re)Introducing the ITS Help Desk

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CSUCI IT Services is pleased to announce that we will be re-opening our face-to-face customer support space in Broome Library 1350 on March 25th, 2024. Formerly known as the Solution Center Service Desk, the ITS Help Desk has been renamed to emphasize our dedication to providing prompt, efficient, and courteous assistance with IT-related matters to our campus community.

We cordially invite the campus community to the grand [re]opening of the ITS Help Desk on March 25th at 9:00 AM in Broome Library 1350. Learn about the services offered at the ITS Help Desk, mingle with ITS staff, and enjoy light refreshments. 

For further information regarding the opening of the ITS Help Desk, please visit the CSUCI News Center - Solution Center reintroduced as ITS Help Desk.


Tips to Avoid Tax Season Scams

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Tax time

As you prepare to do your taxes this season, be on the lookout for these potential signs of tax fraud: 

  • First and foremost, be wary of unsolicited messages claiming to be from the IRS or any tax authority. These entities will never contact you by email, text message, or social media to request personal or financial information. 
  • Emails containing documents about tax law changes are another avenue for scammers to get malicious files into your computer.
  • The promise of unusually large refunds, which scammers use to lure unsuspecting taxpayers into sharing sensitive information. 
  • If using one, ensure your tax preparer is reputable and has appropriate credentials. Always review your tax return carefully before submitting and avoid signing blank forms. 

Lastly, safeguard your Social Security number and personal information, as these are key targets for identity thieves. By staying informed and vigilant, you can keep your valuables safe and out of the hands of criminals. 

Read more about this here: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-security-summit-partners-warn-of-surge-in-new-client-scams-aimed-at-tax-pros-as-2024-filing-season-approaches.

For more information, contact CSUCI's Information Security Team at infosec@csuci.edu or visit the Information Security website.


Using End-of-Life (EOL) Computer Equipment Can be a Substantial Cyberthreat

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In a recent cybersecurity triumph, the U.S. government successfully thwarted a sophisticated botnet linked to the People's Republic of China. This botnet was allegedly utilized to conceal hacking activities targeted at critical infrastructure, posing a potential threat to national security.

End of Life Computer Equipment is a Cyberthreat

The nation-state hackers used comprised routers from Cisco, NetGear, and other routers that were vulnerable because they had reached “end of life” status; that is, they were no longer supported through their manufacturer’s security patches or other software updates.

The Department of Justice spearheaded a coordinated effort to dismantle the botnet, severing the connection between compromised devices and the central server. This strategic move neutralized an immediate threat and signaled the United States' commitment to defend against cyber threats.

Critical infrastructure, including power grids and communication networks, is increasingly vulnerable to cyber-attacks. The disruption of this botnet is a pivotal step in protecting these essential systems and attributing cyber-attacks to their perpetrators. The incident also emphasizes the need for international cooperation in addressing evolving cyber threats.

Your home network and EOL devices can lead to a cyber-attack. Ensuring devices are updated and replaced in a timely manner is crucial to protecting yourself from an attack like this. 

Source: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/us-government-disrupts-botnet-peoples-republic-china-used-conceal-hacking-critical


Information Security Scholarship Opportunities - Applications Begin January 15, 2024

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CSUCI Information Technology Services would like to bring attention to a great opportunity for students looking for scholarship opportunities in the field of Information Security.

ISC2 Scholarships

Educating Future Information Security Professionals

The International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2) and its Center for Cyber Safety and Education are deeply committed to encouraging and supporting students pursuing a degree focusing on cybersecurity, information assurance, or similar fields. The scholarships, sponsored by ISC2, support students globally. Efforts like these can lead students to long-term career success in a rewarding and critically important field. The scholarships are part of an effort to bridge the cybersecurity workforce gap—which stands at 3.4 million needed professionals—by providing future cybersecurity professionals across the globe with scholarships to prepare them for a rewarding career in this important field.  

Find more information about all the scholarships at https://www.iamcybersafe.org/s/scholarships.


December 18th, 2023 - Windows Updates

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Dear CSUCI Community,

Beginning December 18, 2023, CSUCI computers will undergo a Windows update using a new tool introduced by ITS. This update includes all the Security and Quality updates that would normally be deployed as required but will now include the latest Windows feature update and essential system improvements.  Due to the additional functionality, the first update will potentially be longer than a traditional update and it is essential that the update completes once started before shutting down your system.  These updates will apply only to Windows computers.

Key Information:

  • Start Date: December 18, 2023
  • Updates: Newest Windows feature update and required patches
  • Restart Required: After updates, a restart is necessary (may take up to one hour)

User Options:

  • Notification: You will be notified before the restart.
  • Restart Time: Choose a time or allow an automatic restart.
  • Suggestion: Consider restarting as you leave for the day.

Questions or Concerns: For any inquiries, please contact the Solution Center at 805-437-8552.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Best regards,

ITS (Information Technology Services)

Information Security Careers: Empowering Local High School Students to pursue Information Security Careers

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CSUCI Information Technology Services (Jim August and Carlos Miranda) recently enjoyed conducting engaging hour-long in-person and virtual presentations at Pacifica High School and Camarillo High School titled "Info Sec Careers: Why you are needed and why you can do them!"



During the sessions, we delved into the world of information security, discussing the importance of these careers and highlighting the opportunities available to students from all backgrounds. We aimed to inspire the students by emphasizing the demand for these roles and their capability to excel in this field. Information Security needs women, minorities, and other candidates from diverse backgrounds for good-paying jobs.

Key Highlights

Understanding Information Security: We provided an overview of information security, its significance in today's digital landscape, and its crucial role in safeguarding data.

Education: Graduating High School Students can look at going to CSUCI for majors such as Information Technology and Computer Science and, coming soon, a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity. 

Career Pathways: Exploring various career paths within information security, we showcased the diversity of roles available, ranging from ethical hacking to cybersecurity analysis and beyond.

Certifications: Our goal was to empower the students by emphasizing that these careers are not only in demand but also accessible with dedication, passion, and continuous learning. The session provides an overview of the different Information Security professional certifications and the skills needed to attain them. 

Interactive Session: We engaged the students through interactive discussions, answering their questions and encouraging them to consider the diverse opportunities within information security.

We hope our session sparked interest and curiosity among the students about the exciting world of information security, inspiring them to consider a career path in this ever-evolving and crucial field.

A huge thanks to Pacifica and Camarillo High School for the opportunity to connect and share insights into the world of information security careers!


Internships, Careers with the FBI Cybersecurity Awareness Month Session

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cybersecurity month 2023 logo

On Friday October 20, 2023, as part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month (CSAM) CSUCI had 4 members of L.A.’s F.B.I. Division on campus for a session about "Internships, Careers with the FBI". This session/webinar provided valuable insights into opportunities for individuals interested in working for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The session covered the following key points:

1. Introduction to the FBI

An overview of the FBI's mission, which is to protect and defend the United States against terrorist and foreign intelligence threats, uphold and enforce the criminal laws of the United States, and provide leadership and criminal justice services to federal, state, municipal, and international partners.

2. Internship Programs

  • The FBI offers a variety of internship programs for undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Interns can gain experience in areas such as cybersecurity, intelligence analysis, criminal investigation, and more.
  • These internships provide a valuable opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals and contribute to the FBI's mission.

3. Entry-Level Careers

  • The FBI recruits individuals with diverse backgrounds and skills, including law enforcement, intelligence analysis, linguistics, computer science, and more.
  • Special Agent positions were discussed, which require a rigorous application process, including background checks, physical fitness tests, and interviews.
  • The webinar highlighted the need for candidates to meet certain requirements, such as U.S. citizenship and a minimum age of 23.

4. Career Development

  • Participants were informed about the various career paths within the FBI, including leadership roles and specialized positions in fields like cybercrime, counterterrorism, and counterintelligence.
  • Ongoing training and development opportunities were emphasized, showcasing the FBI's commitment to continuous growth and learning.

5. Application Process

  • Detailed information on the application process for internships and careers was provided, including how to submit applications through the FBI's official website.
  • The importance of thorough and accurate applications, as well as the significance of integrity in the selection process were highlighted.

6. Q&A Session

The session concluded with a question-and-answer session, where attendees could ask specific questions about the FBI's recruitment process, work culture, and opportunities.

In summary, the "Internships, Careers with the FBI" session served as a comprehensive introduction to the FBI's various programs and career paths. It aimed to educate and inform potential candidates about the opportunities available within the organization and the steps needed to pursue a career with the FBI.


Cybersecurity Awareness Month Webinars

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October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month (CSAM), and we have several webinars for this month all about cybersecurity. Join us on Oct. 26 from 11 a.m. to noon via Zoom.

We are lucky to be joined by CompTIA's Chief Technology Evangelist, Dr. James Stanger, who will present on "The Cybersecurity Professional Diaries: A Day in the Life". This webinar discusses the myriad of job roles in the world of cybersecurity. We will discuss various roles from SOC analyst, to pen tester, GRC/compliance specialist, auditor, and more. Please use your .edu email address to register for the event

We will also have a panel of several CSU CISOs: Carlos Miranda (CSUCI), Cuc Du (CSULB), and Chris Witthans (CSU Chico). We will give a lucky participant a CompTIA Sec+ Voucher and Educational training bundle (worth $1,000), so please be sure to use your .edu email address to register for the event.

For a complete list of Cybersecurity webinars hosted by CSU campuses, please visit CSU Cybersecurity Awareness 2023 Webinars.

CompTIA: "The Cybersecurity Professional Diaries: A Day in the Life" event link: 
https://csuci.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_a4eDPiTbQvykAxtgM0FIJA#/registration

CSU Cybersecurity Awareness 2023 Webinars link:
https://www.calstate.edu/impact-of-the-csu/technology/pages/webinars.aspx

Center for Cyber Safety & Education Certification Scholarship Opportunity

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CSUCI ITS would like to bring attention to a great opportunity for a free exam voucher for an ISC2 exam of your choice (CISSP, CSSLP, CCSP, SSCP, CGRC, ISSAP, ISSEP, ISSMP).



ELIGIBILITY

  • You do not need to be a United States citizen or reside in the United States. The scholarship is open to applicants globally. 
  • Applicants must belong to a historically underrepresented minority in STEM – including but not limited to women, Black, Native American, Asian American & Pacific Islander, Hispanic, LGBTQIA+, neurodiverse, and persons with disabilities. 
  • Must plan to sit for the exam within one year of receipt of the award. 
  • Current ISC2 members and non-members are eligible to apply. 

WHAT YOU WILL NEED

  • One Letter of Recommendation outlining the following:
    • How long have you known the applicant and in what capacity? 
    • What skills or abilities does the applicant have that will support them in achieving certification? 
    • What other information about the applicant should be taken into consideration? 
  • Resume/CV – No more than 4 pages maximum
  • Answers to the following essay questions in 500 words or less
    • What experience/s do you have that’s relevant to the cybersecurity field? What sets you apart from other applicants?
    • Describe why you need the scholarship in order to achieve an ISC2 certification. 
    • Describe your personal and educational backgrounds. 
    • What makes you a candidate for success in information security and what are your goals for your professional career? How will the certification be a benefit to you? 
    • Describe any contributions to the cybersecurity field i.e., volunteer work, articles, etc., and any other hobbies or extracurricular activities and what they mean to you.  
    • Please tell us anything else you would like us to know about you in consideration of your application. 

SCORING CRITERIA

Applicants will be scored by members of the ISC2 and will be based on the following categories:

    • Passion 25%
    • Merit 25%
    • Financial Need 50%
Please refer to the Center for Cyber Safety and Education Certification Scholarship page for further information and to apply.