Malware and Viruses
What is Malware?
Software or firmware intended to perform an unauthorized process that will have adverse impact on the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of an information system. A virus, worm, Trojan horse, or other code-based entity that infects a host. Spyware and some forms of adware are also examples of malicious code.
Source: https://csrc.nist.gov/glossary/term/malware
What is a Virus?
A computer program that can copy itself and infect a computer without permission or knowledge of the user. A virus might corrupt or delete data on a computer, use e-mail programs to spread itself to other computers, or even erase everything on a hard disk. See
malicious code.
Source: https://csrc.nist.gov/glossary/term/virus
What do I do if I get an infection?
If you have not used a quality up-to-date antivirus program on your computer, be sure to install one. Some problems blamed on malware are actually caused by software configuration errors or other problems that have nothing to do with a malware. If you do get infected by malware, follow the directions in your antivirus program for cleaning it. If you have backup copies of the infected files, use those to restore the files. Check the files you restore to make sure your backups were not infected. For assistance, check the web site and support services for your antivirus software. If your Parkside Issued device is infected, please be sure to report your issue immediately to the TechBar.
What are some general tips on avoiding malware infections?
Install antivirus software from a well-known, reputable company, update, and use it regularly. New malware is constantly discovered; an antivirus program that has not been updated for several months will not provide much protection against current viruses or other malware. Only open an email and attachments if you know who the sender is. If you feel you must open an attachment from an unknown sender, first save the attachment and then check it with an up-to-date virus scanner before opening the file. If your E-mail has the ability to automatically execute JavaScript, Word macros, or other executable code contained in or attached to a message, it is strongly recommended that you disable this feature. Perform regular backups. Some malware will erase or corrupt files on your hard drive, and a recent backup may be the only way to recover your data. Ideally, you should back up your entire system on a regular basis. If this is not practical, at least back up files that you cannot afford to lose or that would be difficult to replace: documents, address books, important E-mail, etc. Be careful about browsing unfamiliar Web sites. Cybercriminals increasingly hack Web pages to serve malware. Simply browsing to an infected Web site may infect your computer.
What is Campus Technology Services doing to help?
CTS provides malware protection for faculty and staff PCs. Additionally, firewalls and other network tools help filter many unwanted connections that lead to the spread of malware. However, no tool will fully protect a system. In the end it is up to the user to help prevent computer infections. The helpdesk staff will also provide advice on security tools that can be installed on student and employee home computers.
Antivirus and Antimalware Software Suggestions
MalwareBytes Homepage
Kaspersky Homepage
Avast Homepage
AVG Homepage