Secure Storage

Disk Encryption

Required to use the Health System VPN and/or to store sensitive data on your devices. The built-in applications for Windows (BitLocker) and Mac OS X (FileVault) are supported by both the academic and health system.

USB sticks/Flash Drives

When plugged into a Health System computer, USB/flash drives (aka thumb drives) will generate a prompt for encryption when users attempt to save data to them. To store sensitive data on a USB drive that is transportable, the UVA Health System can provision a FIPS-certified “Secure Key” USB/flash drive.

UVA Box.com

The university offers up to 1 TB of storage to students for free as long as you are at UVA. This solution is appropriate for your University files containing non-sensitive and moderately sensitive data (eg. FERPA-protected data including transcripts). Box.com is NOT appropriate for highly sensitive data (eg. personal identifiers combined with financial information, HIPAA or PHI).

Read more about UVA Box

DropBox

The Health System offers secure cloud storage to affiliated students and employees. When configured properly, this solution is appropriate for both moderately sensitive and highly sensitive data. Like other enterprise cloud storage options, the interface is simple and intuitive, supports back ups of your documents, access on mobile devices, supports file sharing, etc. More information on the solution is available here.

Designated department shares on clinical network

Many hospital departments use shares on the clinical network to share data – moderately and highly sensitive data. They typically surface as “F:”, “O:” and “Z:” drives on Windows workstations and “hscs-share1” on Apple/Macs. If given privileges, you can connect from your personal laptop if you are connected to the clinical network and/or are using a Health System VPN.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions of your Medical Education Technology support staff. Emails to mededweb@virginia.edu are the most reliable way to contact us outside of the classroom.