KTH tightens security with new procedures for access to premises and login

“It is no easy task, Boman notes and continues:

“The changes are as much about shifting the culture and behaviour of staff and students as about introducing new technology to prevent different kinds of intrusion.

As part of efforts to prevent theft and unauthorised access to KTH premises, KTH is introducing a new access control procedure requiring both a pass card and a code for entry through all external doors and internal corridor entrances across all campuses.

“The exception is the card readers that give access to stairwells and common areas, for example. Once the project has been implemented, adjustments may be made, but only after the implementation is complete at the end of December, Boman says.

Another measure is to strengthen the protection of staff and students KTH-account. The university is introducing a new login procedure that requires a username, password and approval via a mobile phone app, known as multifactor authentication (MFA).

“It is about ensuring that only the right people with the right authorisation have access to KTH’s services and systems. This makes it more difficult for those who do not have authorisation and reduces the risk of intrusion, Boman says.

How will the new security routines affect employees’ daily life?

“At first, it may seem bothersome, but it is important that we all keep in mind the need to look after one another and protect what is worth protecting at KTH — namely students, staff, research, education, and facilities, Boman emphasises.

She further points out that there are measures that everyone can already take today to enhance safety and security at KTH.

“Dare to ask who you are letting into KTH’s premises, and talk to each other.

Interview with Christina Boman about the Dare to Ask campaign

Text: Marianne Norén

More security work underway at KTH

Developing an information security management system

Extensive work is underway within the security department to develop a management system for information security. The system provides a structured way for KTH to address security issues, creating routines and processes to protect information based on confidentiality, accuracy and availability.

Interview with CISO Carl-Niclas Odenbring about information security at KTH.

Improving electrical safety

The Safety Department is also reviewing electrical safety across the university. Electrical specialists are mapping deficiencies in relation to legislation, developing a management system that defines roles and responsibilities, and training employees in electrical safety.

Ensure secure identity and access management

Further activities at KTH focus on making sure that the right person has the right access to different KTH resources, and on closing down systems and applications that are vulnerable to intrusion, with the aim of strengthening information security within KTH. These measures are being carried out as part of a programme running until the autumn of 2028.

About the programme Secure Identity and Access Management