GU iCloud
iCloud uses encryption and strict policies to protect user data. It leads the industry in using privacy-preserving technologies like end-to-end encryption.
There are two encryption options for iCloud: standard data protection (default) and Advanced Data Protection (optional highest level).
What is GU iCloud?
GU iCloud is a cloud-based education management system developed for Galgotias University (GU) in India. It is powered by iCloudEMS and provides a comprehensive web-enabled solution for students, faculty, and university administration.
Galgotias University Rankings
Galgotias University, renowned for its exceptional academic programs, has been recognized as ‘Excellent’ in the ARIIA Ranking 2021, UGC-12B status, and DSIR SIRO. It has also been ranked among India’s top 151-200 universities, with a 147th ranking in Engineering, 52nd in Pharmacy, and 93rd in Management.
Standard Data Protection (Default)
- Data is encrypted in transit and stored encrypted on Apple servers.
- Encryption keys are secured on Apple servers so Apple can assist with data recovery if needed.
- Some data categories are end-to-end encrypted by default even with standard protection: Passwords, Health, Home, Messages (with iCloud backup off), Payment info, Apple Card transactions, Apple Maps, etc.
Advanced-Data Protection (Optional)
- Offers the highest level of iCloud data security using end-to-end encryption on more data.
- Encryption keys remain only on the user’s trusted devices. Apple cannot access keys to decrypt data.
- Covers data categories like iCloud Backup, iCloud Drive, Photos, Notes, etc. Some metadata is still under standard protection.
- The user is responsible for account recovery. Need device passcode, recovery contact, or key.
Apps and features on iCloud.com
Key Apps and Features
- Web access to iCloud email, contacts, and calendar.
- Features like smart search, undo send, and rich links, remind me.
Contacts
- View and edit contacts synced via iCloud.
Calendar
- View and edit events and calendars synced via iCloud.
Photos
- View and manage photos and videos stored in iCloud Photos.
- Includes new features like Memories.
iCloud Drive
- File storage and synchronization.
- Updated list view layout.
Notes
- View and edit notes synced via iCloud.
Pages, Numbers, Keynote
- Web versions of productivity apps to view and edit documents.
On iCloud.com (Web Access)
- Can view iCloud data from any browser after signing in.
- With Advanced Data Protection on, limited to Find My and iCloud Settings only. Can re-enable web access in iCloud settings while keeping protection on.
- Apps accessible on iCloud.com: Mail, Contacts, Calendar, Photos, iCloud Drive, Notes, etc.
iCloud Data Security
- iCloud uses encryption and other security methods to protect user data. By default, iCloud data is encrypted in transit and at rest (stored on servers in encrypted format).
- There are two iCloud security options:
- Standard data protection (default): iCloud data is encrypted, but the encryption keys are stored by Apple so they can assist with account recovery if needed. Only certain sensitive data like health data and iCloud Keychain passwords are end-to-end encrypted.
- Advanced Data Protection (optional): Offers end-to-end encryption for most iCloud data categories so not even Apple can access the data. The user’s trusted devices retain the encryption key.
- With Advanced Data Protection enabled, 23 iCloud data categories are end-to-end encrypted including photos, notes, reminders, Safari bookmarks, etc. Some metadata remains under standard protection for functionality.
Signing in to iCloud.com
- Go to iCloud.com and sign in with your Apple ID (email or phone number) and password.
- Can also sign in using Face ID/Touch ID on Safari, or Passkeys in supported browsers.
- If enabled, may need to enter a two-factor authentication code from a trusted device.
- Can access iCloud data and features like iCloud Drive, Photos, Mail, Contacts, Calendar, etc on iCloud.com. Access depends on the account and device used to sign in.
Summary
iCloud provides robust encryption to secure user data, with an Advanced Data Protection option for end-to-end encryption. Users can access iCloud services and data by signing in to iCloud.com with their Apple ID credentials.
