AU introduces new security measure for your mobile devices

Increasing digitalisation provides ever more opportunities for employees to access email, calendars and Teams from their tablets and mobile phones. However, it also necessitates stricter security requirements for the devices we use.  

In order to comply with the minimum technical requirements for government institutions, all employees must install the Microsoft 365 app “Intune Company Profile” on all the mobile devices they use to access AU data. 

The app helps ensure that everyone keeps their devices up-to-date, as updates are crucial to maintaining a high level of security. The app reminds you when to update the operating system and will block access to AU data if you do not update by the specified deadline. The initiative has been approved by LEA (the administration’s management team) with support from CISU (the Central Information Security Committee).  

Thomas Kaaber, head of information security at AU, emphasises the importance of security. 

"Cybercriminals are a big threat to universities. As recently as last December, we were reminded of the gravity of the situation when AU had to shut down access to a number of IT systems because of a serious security threat. We are constantly thinking about what we can do to prevent serious data breaches. The Intune app is an important initiative that can help keep our data from ending up in the wrong hands," says Thomas Kaaber. 

He points out that several other large organisations also use the Intune Company Portal, and that the other universities in Denmark will introduce similar solutions to improve cyber security.  

Special login requirements 

Installing the app will not affect how you use your device on a daily basis. During December 2021 and January 2022, the Intune Company Portal was tested by approx. 1,000 employees and rolled out to everyone in AU IT. Experiences were positive and, among other things, they showed that there will be no changes for most people when they install the app. 

However, to further increase security, the Intune Company Portal has additional login requirements for your devices. Login must consist of either a six-digit code, Face ID or Touch ID. If you do not already use these types of login, you will be guided through the process when you install the app. 

Furthermore, everyone with an Android phone will see a change on their home screen as, in future, it will be divided into two areas: "Personal" and "Work". The apps under "Work" are covered by the Intune Company Portal. 

Some employees currently use their private telephones for work purposes. You will also need to install the app on your private devices if you want to continue to access AU data from them.  

Outdated equipment has to be replaced 

Some mobile devices can no longer be updated and you will need a new device. Mobile devices must be updated to the following operating systems for the app to work:  

• Android: OS 10  

• Apple iPhone 6S  

The Intune Company Portal will be rolled out gradually in the coming period, and you will receive an email with more information when you are asked to install the app. Including information on how to deal with any changes.  

Until then, you can also find information on this website, which includes a question/answer section.

FACTS about installing the Intune Company Portal 

• The app is gradually being rolled out to the entire university. You will receive an email when it is time to install the Intune Company Portal.  

• You have 14 days to install the app. Once the three weeks have lapsed, you will only be able to access AU data from mobile devices that have Intune installed. 

• Installing the app is easy and you can do so anywhere, as long as you have a stable internet connection.  

• You can download the Intune Company Profile app via the App Store or Google Play, depending on whether you have an Apple or Android device.