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ITS Newsletter Spring 2002
contents:
Introduction | Responsible
Computing | Corporate Time | Email:
Recommendation & Tip
In the LRC | Streaming Media
| Useful Links on the Web | Does
Technology Make Our Lives Easier?
Reflections from SCS | Student Virus Protection
| ITS Workshops |Farewell
to Departing Seniors
Back
Issues: Fall 2001 |Winter
2001 | Fall 2000
| Spring 2000 | Winter
2000 | archives
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Dear Students
from Paula Krog and
Student Computing Services
Computer viruses have become an increasingly significant problem
throughout the world. The vast distribution and advancement of technology
has made it easier for computers to become infected with a virus.
Essentially, a computer virus is a program that is designed to self-replicate
without the knowledge of the user. Viruses often contain a second
element called a 'payload', which carries out actions other than
replication. Payloads vary from virus to virus—they can be
merely annoying like the Klez virus that recently struck Colby,
or they can actually cause physical damage to your system like the
W95.CIH (Chernobyl) virus we experienced four years ago. There is
no quick and easy solution to computer virus problems. However,
there are measures you can take to prevent and reduce damage from
a computer virus.
1. The best thing you can do for yourself is to go out and buy anti-virus
software. This software, when installed correctly, monitors your
computer system and normally runs weekly system scans to check the
entire hard drive. Anti-virus software is important because it scans
the activity on your computer and prevents viruses from deploying
their payload or replicating. However, Anti-virus software is only
effective when properly installed and well maintained. Users must
regularly update the anti-virus software and the virus definitions.
This software is available locally at several stores including Wal-Mart.
Virtual Dimensions located in downtown Waterville offers discounts
to Colby students.
2. The risk of infection grows exponentially when you do not take
care exchanging floppy disks, downloading web material, or opening
email attachments. Be careful in loaning out disks or your computer
to a friend. When you receive your email do not open any attachments
that you were not expecting.
3. This cannot be stressed enough and it is the most valuable tool
you have: make regular backups of your files to a floppy or a zip
disk. Some viruses make it impossible to retrieve corrupted files.
Backups enable you to continue working with little loss. During
exam time, something is better than nothing.
In anticipation of fleeing this place in May, please let us not
forget that computer viruses seem to be more prevalent during times
such as exam weeks or before breaks. Viruses are designed to specifically
wreak havoc upon computer users and the productivity of students
seems to be specifically targeted sometimes. Please be careful.
Make sure that your computer virus software is updated and the software
has not expired. Updating definitions must be done AT LEAST EVERY
TWO WEEKS. Norton Anti-virus is most the most widely used product
on campus You can purchase or upgrade it online at www.symantec.com/nav/nav_9xnt/.
Another popular anti-virus package is
McAfee, which can be purchased at www.pcconnection.com
Many
of you who came to Student Computer Services with the Klez virus
this spring received a trial version of Norton Anti-virus. It is
important that you purchase a full version as soon as possible to
receive maximum protection.
Should
you have any questions about anti-virus software please call Student
Computer Services at extension 3666.
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