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Viruses - Computer Support |
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Provided below are links to web sites that provide information about computer viruses. This list is not meant to be a complete list or a list of recommended sites. These are sites that we are aware of, although there are many more available on the World Wide Web.
General Information:
Intro to Viruses
CERT/CC Computer Virus Resources
Viruses:
McAfee.com - Virus Information Library
Symantec Security Updates
Encyclopedia
McAfee - AVERT - Virus Information Library
Virus Hoaxes:
McAfee.com - Virus Information Library - Virus
Hoaxes
Symantec Security Updates - Virus
Hoaxes
Virus Detection and Prevention Tips
- Do not open any files attached to an e-mail from an unknown, suspicious or untrustworthy source.
- Do not open any files attached to an e-mail unless you know what it is, even if it appears to come from a dear friend or someone you know. Some viruses can replicate themselves and spread through e-mail. Better be safe than sorry and confirm that they really sent it.
- Do not open any files attached to an e-mail if the subject line is questionable or unexpected. If the need to do so is there, always save the file to your hard drive before doing so.
- Delete chain e-mails and junk e-mail. Do not forward or reply to any of them. These types of e-mail are considered spam, which is unsolicited, intrusive mail that clogs up the network.
- Do not download any files from strangers.
- Exercise caution when downloading files from the Internet. Ensure that the source is a legitimate and reputable one. Verify that an anti-virus program checks the files on the download site. If you're uncertain, don't download the file at all or download the file to a floppy and test it with your own anti-virus software.
- Update your anti-virus software regularly. Over 500 viruses are discovered each month, so you'll want to be protected. These updates should be at the least the products virus signature files. You may also need to update the product's scanning engine as well.
- Back up your files on a regular basis. If a virus destroys your files, at least you can replace them with your back-up copy. You should store your backup copy in a separate location from your work files, one that is preferably not on your computer.
When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and do not
open, download, or execute any files or e-mail attachments. Not executing is the more
important of these caveats. Check with your product vendors for updates which include
those for your operating system, web browser, and e-mail.