Tech Tips: Send Mass Email with Blind Copy, Use VPN for Online Privacy

July 28, 2020

 

Tech Tip of the Week

Sending an email to a large group of people?

Consider using the BCC function for your recipients. That helps prevent everyone on the email from receiving routine updates, thank-you notices, etc., when people accidentally use Reply All. If all email recipients don’t need to see responses, they’ll appreciate the courtesy.

 

Using VPN

 

Here are some answers to some of your VPN questions: 

  • What are the main benefits of a VPN?

    • A VPN hides your computer’s IP address from hackers and websites.

    • Your location & device are unknown – you appear as the VPN server, not your device.

    • All traffic entering and leaving your device is encrypted.

    • Your data is safe and secure at all times.

    • Your internet activity remains private.

    • Travel internationally? A VPN can make it appear to websites as if you are back home in the U.S. A VPN can also make it appear that you are in another country/city when you are, in fact, home.

  • Do I need a VPN if I’m using my home WiFi?

    • Yes. While your network traffic within your home network is encrypted, once it leaves your house it is no longer encrypted and can be monitored. Using a VPN protects your data and network traffic even after it leaves your house.

  • Can I still be hacked if I use a VPN?

    • A VPN prevents attacks that track, monitor or steal data. 

    • A VPN does not protect you if you visit a malicious site and pick up a virus. You’ll still need to use a virus protection program. A virus protection program should be installed on your Duke-owned computer.

  • How do I get a VPN?

    • There are many private VPNs available online. Use the link below under the last mainpoint in this section to find one that suits your requirements.

    • When selecting a VPN, be sure to look at customer comments and industry rating. Select one that offers:

      • No vendor logging or monitoring

      • Strong encryption

      • No advertisements

      • Multiple devices (use it on your PC, mobile device, tablet, etc.)

  • Is there a cost for a private VPN?

    • Yes. There are free VPNs, but they contain ads and/or monitor and sell your activity.

  • Does Duke cover the cost for a private VPN?

    • No, but they offer the Duke VPN for you to use if you’d like to use one.

  • Can I use Duke’s VPN for private internet activity?

    • Yes. It will appear to all of the websites you visit that you are located at Duke, and it may slow down your browsing a little.

  • How Do I use the Duke VPN?

    • Visit the Duke VPN page to get started. The steps you’ll follow to connect are:

      • Before installing the VPN client, set up your Multifactor Authentication.

      • Download and run the Cisco AnyConnect install file.

      • Once the installation is complete, open Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client.

      • In the Connect box, type dmvpn.duhs.duke.edu .

      • Enter your NetID and Password.

      • For Security Key or Second Password, enter your Multifactor Authentication code from DUO Mobile.

      • Click OK.

      • Once connected, the dialog box will disappear.

    • When you are finished with the VPN:

      • Open Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client.

      • Select the Disconnect option.

  • Get a Private VPN, and use it on all devices.

    • Using a private VPN provides an encrypted connection for all of your devices not just your main computer.  

    • Here’s a comparison of different private VPN services from a trusted source. If you’d like a recommendation for a basic, easy-to-use personal VPN, try TunnelBear. 

Contact

 

Contact your IT Service Desk at 919-684-9200 or email to citdl@mc.duke.edu.

 

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