Introduction
With the increasing use of computers and the Internet, it is becoming vitally important to protect our University network from viruses and other computer threats. The division of Information Technology Services (ITS) has implemented several virus prevention measures to protect our University against costly network downtime, reduced productivity, and compromised data.
Desktop Protection: Each University workstation that has the Desktop Services Software (DSS) installed includes anti-virus software that is continuously being updated with the latest virus definitions (to have the DSS image installed on your workstation, contact your college ITC). In addition, ITS has obtained a site license to make McAfee anti-virus software available for home use. Learn more »
*New*: Conficker (also known as Downup, Downadup and Kido) is a computer worm that targets the Microsoft Windows operating system. It disables a number of system services related to security (e.g. Windows Automatic Update, Windows Security Center, Windows Defender, and other security software) leaving the system vulnerable. Computers that are not configured to receive patches and updates from Microsoft and who are not running an up to date antivirus product are at risk. However, users who automatically receive updates from Microsoft should already be protected from this worm.
If you believe you may have this worm, McAfee has released a stinger (a utility used to find and remove specific viruses), it will detect and remove all known W32/Conficker variants to date on your computer. The stinger program is available for free download at: http://vil.nai.com/vil/conficker_stinger/Stinger_Coficker.exe.
E-mail Protection: All University e-mail servers have the latest anti-virus software installed, which automatically scans all incoming e-mail messages before they are delivered to users' mailboxes. In addition, the University is blocking e-mail attachments with certain file extensions that are commonly used to spread viruses. Learn more »
Getting Help: If you believe your University workstation is infected with a virus, contact your college ITC or the ITS Help Desk (3-6170) for assistance.