What is a Computer Virus?
A computer virus is a program that replicates by copying or
attempting to copy itself to another program or computer. It can be transmitted
as attachments to an e-mail, a downloaded file, on a diskette or CD, or get in
through a security hole that has not been patched. Some viruses start causing harm to your system
as soon as their code is executed, and others can stay dormant on your machine until
something causes their code to be executed. Many viruses simply use up
processing speed and cause your machine to run slower; however, some can be
quite harmful, erasing data and causing your hard disk to require reformatting.
How do I Protect My Computer?
PLU OWNED COMPUTERS:
University owned
computers receive updates on a weekly basis. These updates
include new virus definition files and patches for your Operating
system. They are done remotely from our offices and run in the
background while you work. If an infected file is found on your
machine, the virus scanner will send a message to our server to notify
us that a virus was found. In most cases you will be contacted
and notified what will need to be done.
PERSONALLY OWNED COMPUTERS:
- An important first
step: Purchase, install and regularly update a reputable anti-virus software
program. Purchased programs come with continued support to assist you with any
problems you may encounter. PLU offers a free anti-virus program to the PLU community. Go to the antivirus web page.
- Back up any files or
documents which are important to you. Make sure you have the media (CD or
diskette) for all of your programs in the event you have to reinstall these
programs. This is also important if something goes wrong with your computer.
- Check with the sender
before opening messages with attachments ending in EXE, COM or ZIP and be
cautious of any messages, even from people you know, with non-descriptive
subjects and comments.
- If you're using an e-mail
program such as Mozilla periodically empty the trash by choosing File, Empty
Trash.
- Keep your computer up-to-date with the latest patches from Microsoft. We recommend turning on the Autoomatic Updates to ensure that your machine has the most recent patches installed.
Where Can I get More Information?
ON THE WEB:
FREE DOWNLOADS AND FIXES (FOR NON-UNIVERSITY OWNED COMPUTERS):
ON CAMPUS CONTACT:
- For employees:
Computing and Telecommunication Services at ext. 7525 or send e-mail to
comptelc@plu.edu
- For students: Visit
or call the Student Help Desk, ext. 7525 (535-7525 if calling from
off-campus)
