Drexel began a data security initiative as part of a comprehensive security, privacy, and compliance program to better protect academic, medical, financial, and other sensitive personal records entrusted to the University.

Anti-virus and Security

Drexel provides Microsoft Defender for Endpoint for both Windows and macOS devices. This software provides protection against malware including ransomware. IT deploys Defender for Endpoint to all Drexel owned computers. If you believe your device is missing Defender for Endpoint, please email helpdesk@drexel.edu.

Computer Encryption

Drexel enables Microsoft BitLocker on Windows and Apple FileVault on macOS for full disk encryption. This software prevents a computer's contents from being viewed if it is lost or stolen, protecting personal and university records. IT recommends that all computers subscribe to a secure file backup service such as CrashPlan.

Computer Encryption details

File Backup Services

Technology Guidelines for International Travelers

Smartphone and Tablet Encryption

Since July 2014, Drexel has widely deployed security and encryption settings for smartphones and tablets. The settings automatically apply when mobile devices connect to the Drexel mail servers; they enforce the use of a 6-digit PIN to unlock mobile devices, full device encryption so that email and attachments on lost or stolen devices cannot be viewed by others, and automatically relock devices that are unused for 15 minutes.

Smartphone and Tablet Encryption details

Email Encryption and Data Loss Prevention

Email leaving Drexel is scanned for sensitive data, such as social security numbers, credit card numbers, and university ID numbers. Beginning in fall 2014, if such content is found, each sender will be asked to review the message to ensure that all unnecessary information has been removed and that all recipients are authorized to receive the information. Such sensitive messages can only be sent after the review is confirmed and then the message is encrypted to protect the contents.

Email Encryption and Data Loss Prevention details