Campus Recent Virus Alerts:

In the past few months we have observed a rash of extremely active and damaging viruses emerge on the Internet. They have spread rapidly and caused numerous problems across the world.

It is extremely important that all computers on campus, even those not connected to the Internet, have effective, up-to-date anti-virus software installed and running. And that the software be properly maintained and updated as new viruses appear. Computer users must be proactive in this area – once a computer is infected, it is usually too late to repair the damage caused by a virus. Damaged, deleted, or corrupted files are frequent results of a virus attack.

Also, important documents and files should be regularly archived via a backup system such as ZIP disks, recordable CD-ROMS, or other media. This will ensure that any data lost due to a virus can be restored

Please check back later for more information.

Virus Prevention Tips

1. Install Anti-Virus Software on your computer. Do not remove or turn off your software once it is installed.
2. Scan your computer for viruses once a day.
3. Scan all incoming emails and file transfers.
4. Scan all removable media (CDs, ZIP disks) when inserted.
5. Update your Anti-Virus software every day, especially Mondays before you download your email. Most can be set to automatically update their virus list.
6. Set your email client to not automatically launch and download your email when you log in. Also, set it to not download your email when it is first run – make sure you update your Anti-Virus software first.
7. Do not leave your computer and email client running if you are away from you computer for any length of time.
8. Do not open any email attachments, unless you are expecting one from that sender. Never open attachments from ‘friends’ if you are not expecting one – most viruses spread via email address books.
9. Set up a filter on your email client to remove any emails with attachment. >> more information
10. Do not share drives unless absolutely necessary. Make sure shared drives are regularly scanned for viruses.
11. If you suspect your computer is infected, remove it from the network immediately by disconnecting the network cable. Call the Computing Services at (662) 329-7282 for assistance.
12. Please note that allowing a computer system to become infected puts other University systems at risk.

Important Links:

Network Associates
http://www.nai.com/

Symantec
http://www.symantec.com/

McAfee
http://www.mcafee.com

F-Secure Virus Info
http://www.F-Secure.com/virus-info/

CERT.org
http://www.cert.org