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Protecting Against Viruses/Malware/Spyware

Malicious software is generally known as "virus". All software designed to harm systems, cause them to crash and steal private information are categorized as a "virus". Viruses are divided into many different types in terms of purpose of usage, working principles and spreading methods. Click here for descriptions about the most popular types.
Protecting against Viruses/Malware/Spyware
  1. Be Proactive.

    • Make sure your version of Windows is up-to-date. Visit the Microsoft Updates page. Make sure your anti-virus definitions are up-to-date.
      • Scan your computer on a regular basis.

      Newer computer viruses can pass from an infected computer to USB flash drives.
      • The virus spreads when the flash drive is plugged into the computer. Click here for instructions on how to disable autorun.
      • Scan your flash drive.

  2. Be Aware.

    • Be leary of software ads that guarantee to protect you from viruses. Read more about this here.
    • Never open email attachments from unknown sources.
      • Especially attachments containing ".vbs," ".scr," ".exe," or ".pif"
    • Don't download programs from file-sharing networks such as Kazaa, eDonkey, Limewire, and Bittorrent.
    • Keep yourself updated with announcements on newly found virus and worms.
      • Visit www.uscert.gov for a comprehensive list of security alerts and vendor patches.


    We also recommend that you install at least one of these anti-spyware programs:
Link to us!
    Make it a habit to update & run the above programs on a weekly basis!


This web page is maintained by Information Technology Services x7501


Location: Palumbo 3000 - 3rd Floor   *HelpDesk: 871-7501 * Fax: 814-871-5560
Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday - Friday