Does SafeConnect defeat the purpose of using a VPN?

VPN
1

My University requires us to install SafeConnect to connect to the network, and it just really unsettles me. We have to log into the network using our username and password, so I know my traffic will be tied to my username, but they also claim that:

  • SafeConnect is used to validate antivirus, operating system and application patches necessary for computers to meet the campus minimum network connectivity standards.
  • SafeConnect is used to provide information about devices for the purpose of complying with the DMCA.
  • SafeConnect does not log where users travel on the Internet.
  • SafeConnect does not allow ResNet to read the contents of your computer.

What they say SafeConnect checks for is:

  • Windows Operating System Updates: If Windows is not set to check for automatic system updates, a pop-up web browser warning will be issued.
  • Anti-Virus Software Installed and Running: If anti-virus software is not installed and running, a pop-up web browser warning will be issued.
  • Anti-Virus Software Up-to-Date: If anti-virus software is out-of-date, a pop-up web browser warnings will be issued.
  • Peer-to-Peer Software Running: If P2P software is running on your device, a pop-up web browser warning will be issued.

I’ve seen the great analysis posted here by /u/jenrzzz, and have read that you used to be able to bypass SafeConnect by using Linux, but I’m not sure if that’s still the case. They didn’t start requiring credentials or SafeConnect to access the network until the beginning of last semester, and I’ve hated it since the minute I first saw it.

My big question is: Will a VPN serve any purpose if SafeConnect is monitoring my computer the whole time?

2

Not an expert, but I’ll chime in with what I understand - if I make mistakes, I hope to be corrected.

SafeConnect seems to be more of a device management tool; it checks your system for things it doesn’t like (the list you gave). A VPN is used to obfuscate your connection from the local network.

Nothing is stopping SC from noting you have uTorrent installed (for example), even though it’s not an illegal program and has legal/legitimate uses. If you’re using a VPN, you’re masking what you do (legal or otherwise) from “the authorities”/MPAA/etc making it harder for them to find you. But if they do find you, it’s easier for the University to single you out and assign appropriate blame.

Depending on your threat model, you may want to change how you use it.

3

deleted ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^0.0265 ^^^What ^^^is ^^^this?

4

Okay, I’ll have to do some more digging. Thanks for your thoughts!

5

I did wonder if installing SafeConnect on a VM would let me pass the software requirement while keeping it sandboxed to just the VM. I’ll have to try it when I get back.