Malware is the leading problem with computer users. This has required that faculty, staff, students, and OTS all take steps to combat it.

 

• What is Malware?
• Can I be at risk?
• Malware Protection and Avoidance Tips
• Steps OTS Has Taken to Prevent Infection
• Need Help?

 

What is Malware?

Malware is unwanted software which someone else wants to run on your computer. It is designed to infiltrate and damage a computer system without the owner’s knowledge or consent. Malware can include:

• Worms and viruses that are usually destructive in some way – deleting files, wrecking operating systems, etc.
• Spyware which monitors what you do on your computer – can lead to credit card and identity theft
• Adware which shows you unwanted advertising – typically popup ads or unwanted Web homepages
• Hijackers take control over your web browser that may redirect you to certain sites – can take over your Web homepage and search pages

Can I be at risk?

 

Typically using PCs running the Windows operating system make you at risk. PCs running other operating systems such as Linux and Macintosh do not have malware problems.

 

Malware Protection and Avoidance Tips

 

• Keep your computer’s software patched and current. Both your operating system and anti-virus application must be upgraded on a regular basis

• Only download updates from reputable sources. Use the legitimate websites of the company or person who produced it. (example: Microsoft, Symantec, etc.)

• Always think before you install something, weigh the risks and benefits and be aware of the fine print

• Install and use a firewall. If you are using Windows XP you can use the built-in software firewall under Control Panel and there are free versions of firewalls that work on all versions of Windows

• Use anti-virus software and keep it updated

• Pay attention to what you download or run

• Prevention is always better than cure

 

Steps OTS Has Taken to Prevent Infection

 

OTS has taken a number of steps to prevent infection and protect computers from attacks:

 

• E-mail and e-mail attachments are scanned at all mail hubs and Exchange e-mail servers
• Potentially dangerous e-mail attachments are blocked at the mail hubs and Exchange e-mail servers
• McAfee VirusScan is automatically installed and updated on properly configured campus Windows computers
• All new campus computers have anti-malware software pre-loaded when they arrive
• Older computers are being fitted with anti-malware software during each support visit
• A campus firewall is used to block malware from attacking computers across the network
• Campus network hardware is configured to block viruses from attacking computers across the network
• Malware alerts are sent in the form of all-campus e-mails, Daily Digest announcements and Web pages

 

Need Help?

 

If you’re having problems with malware, we’re here to help! Faculty and staff should contact the OTS Help center. Students should contact the SCS Service Desk. There are also some information in the OTS knowledge base that could be helpful.

 

Malware: What is it and how to prevent it

Defining Malware: FAQ

Spyware/Adware/Malware FAQ

Future Trends of Malware