Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the UC Cybersecurity Mandate and UC San Diego's Secure Connect program. We will continue to add pertinent questions and answers to this page as we engage with the UC San Diego community.
Secure Connect FAQs
Last Updated: April 11, 2025 2:27:26 PM PDT
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Expand section General Questions
Why this program and why now?
Earlier this year, UC President Drake and the UC Regents outlined enhanced cybersecurity measures that all UC locations must meet by May 28, 2025. The Secure Connect program was created to ensure that UC San Diego meets this timeline and that our cybersecurity practices are in line with systemwide standards. Secure Connect builds on existing campus and Health cybersecurity measures, adding further safeguards.
Will the mandate still go into effect now that President Drake is stepping down?
Yes, the mandate remains in effect. While President Drake has communicated the mandate, it is a directive endorsed and supported by the UC Regents, the governing board of the University of California. This ensures the mandate's continuity and prioritization as a critical component of UC's cybersecurity strategy, regardless of leadership changes.
What does this program mean for me?
Secure Connect will require contributions and input from all members of the UC San Diego community, with a specific focus on academics and staff. Safeguarding our intellectual property, student and employee information, and patient records is a collective responsibility.
The program will include both educational and technical components. The training efforts will be focused on building shared cybersecurity understanding and vocabulary for our community. The technical aspects of the program will provide an opportunity to reimagine access to UC San Diego Trusted Networks to ensure our information is kept secure.
I'm not technical, will I be expected to perform complex technical tasks for this program?
No. While you may be asked to download specific software, all complex technical tasks will be handled by IT teams. IT Support will be available to assist you if you encounter any issues.
What happens if my device doesn't have the required software?
If your device does not have the required software you will not be able to access the university's trusted networks.