Cybersecurity

Phishing

Definition: to try to obtain financial or other confidential information from Internet users, typically by sending an email-that looks a it if is from a legitimate organization, usually a financial institution, but contains a link to a fake Web site that replicates the real one.

In general, most entities (e.g. banks, health care organizations, academic institutions) will not initiate electronic communications that request your account number, social security number, credit card number, insurance ID, etc. Do not give out personal or sensitive information in electronic mail messages.

Choosing a Password

Creating a secure password is vital for successfully managing your life on the Internet.  

See the links below to help you create a secure and easy-to-remember password(s):

• Creating Strong Passwords
• The Importance of Using Strong Passwords

Computer Virus, Malware, Adware, Spyware, Worms, Trojans...

Do you really need antivirus software? (ZDNet.com)  - Yes!  A very good resource for all you wanted to know about the benefits of antivirus software and were afraid to ask. Just how dangerous is it out there?  You'd be surprised.  See the essential steps you need to take to keep your Windows PC safe.

Some recommended antivirus software:

• Windows Defender Antivirus
• SUPERAntiSpyware
• Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
• AVAST

How did my computer get infected?

1. Your computer does not have antivirus software installed.
2. Your antivirus software does not have the most up-to-date virus definitions.
3. Your PC is behind in its Windows Updates.
4. You clicked on a link or attachment in an email without questioning the source. If the email sender is unknown, delete immediately. Be suspicious of emails from friends - could be spam - always ask to be sure.  It is always best to delete suspect emails and have them sent again if necessary.
5. The administrator password on your Windows PC is blank.
6. You clicked on the flashing message that popped up on your computer telling you "Your computer is infected with viruses - click here to clean your computer" and you've unwittingly opened an executable file that might bring your PC to its knees.  Sometimes also clicking the "cancel" button will yield the same results.  Always try the "X" to close.  If it will not let you click the "X", close the program and/or shut off your PC.
7. You clicked on a popup that looks like a Windows message or alert. Many of them look very convincing and when you click on them they take you to another website to try to get you to download software. You can check to see if it's a proper alert by right-clicking on the window.  If there is a menu that comes up saying "Add to Favorites" - you know it is a fake.
8. You downloaded software from the Internet that was infected.  To check the validity of software downloads see: Norton Safe Web.
9. You opened an infected file from an external drive.  Be sure to run virus scans on any flash or external drives.
10. You did everything right and it still happened.  Unfortunately that is very true, however you can be prepared and practice safe computing.