UT System has issued a Security Practice Bulletin #1 (SPB-1) that has the authority of a policy. This bulletin establishes encryption as a requirement for storage of Confidential University data on portable as well as non-university owned computing devices.
The practice bulletin can be found on the UT Dallas Information Security Policy page along with a Frequently Asked Questions document. Additional questions can be directed to the Information Security Office: infosecurity@utdallas.edu.
UT Dallas Solution
McAfee Endpoint Encryption Information (UT Dallas Users)
What is Endpoint Encryption?
McAfee Endpoint Encryption is a tool used to fully encrypt the physical drives in computers, prohibiting access to the data without proper credentials. Encryption is a secure method of protecting confidential and sensitive data. This protection exists even if the computer is lost or stolen.
Why do we need Encryption?
The University of Texas at Dallas requires the encryption of all confidential and sensitive data based on UTS-165 and Security Practice Bulletin #1. This data includes: research, student information, and personally identifiable health information.
When do I get Endpoint Encryption?
We are going to be deploying Endpoint Encryption in phases based on departments, prioritizing the most critical data first.
How is Endpoint Encryption installed?
Information Resources and Departmental Techs will be installing Endpoint Encryption on each computer. It will immediately begin encrypting the drives and will take approximately 2-4 hours to complete. During the encryption process, you are able to login and use your computer. It must remain powered on (does not have to be logged in) to complete the encryption. You can check on the progress by right-clicking on the icon on the bottom-right corner and going to Show Status.
What are the risks with Endpoint Encryption?
Due to the possibility of hard disk failures, a backup of the computer is recommended. Please contact your responsible Technical Support Department to discuss backup options if you do not have any readily available to you.
