UCSC launches Virtru to make Gmail and Google Drive more secure and private
ITS is pleased to announce Virtru, a new email and file encryption service for UCSC Gmail and Google Drive that will help keep the university's most sensitive communications extra secure and private. Virtru is available to all faculty, staff and students at no charge. Get started with Virtru or read on to learn more about the service.
What is Virtru?
Virtru is an encryption tool that prevents unauthorized access to email messages and attachments, as well as files stored in Google Drive. Virtru also has the ability to prevent a forwarded email from being read, revoking the ability of a recipient to read an email, and granular access controls to protect files uploaded to Google Drive.
How does it work?
- Virtru for Gmail is integrated into the UCSC Google Mail inbox via a Virtru browser extension (Google Chrome only) that, once installed, you can easily turn on and off to encrypt emails and attachments, preventing access by Google and unauthorized parties.
- Virtru for Drive is integrated into the UCSC Google Drive service via a different Virtru browser extension (Google Chrome only) that, once installed, can easily encrypt existing Drive files or new ones, preventing access by Google and unauthorized parties.
When to use it?
While Virtru is not needed for most email messages or Drive files, it is recommended when sending or sharing protected data, generally at P3 (moderate risk) and P4 (high risk) protection levels. See UC Protection Levels for Institutional Information for examples.
Getting started - we’re here to help!
Before you can send and receive secure emails with Virtru, you will need to install and activate the Virtru plugin(s). Learn how to get started with Virtru.
Virtru workshops - While these workshops are geared towards specific groups, please feel free to attend at a time that matches your schedule best. Click on the links below to register.
- February 7, 2022, 10:00 AM
- February 8, 2022, 2:00 PM
- February 9. 2022, 10:00 AM
- February 10, 2022, 2:00 PM
If you would like to schedule a workshop for your department or group, please email help@ucsc.edu with your requested dates and times.
Virtru remote drop-in help from February 15 through March 8th on Tuesdays from 11 - 11:30 AM - passcode: 949267
If you have questions, reach out to us by opening an online support ticket by emailing help@ucsc.edu, or by calling (831) 459-4357.
