Is Your Computer Really Protected From Virus Infection?

02/01/09

Campus computers have recently been experiencing a higher incidence of virus infection. Here are some easy things to check to make sure your computer is well protected. Faculty and staff should contact the ITS Helpdesk for any suspected virus problems. Students should contact the Student Computer Repair Center for assistance.

Windows computers are especially vulnerable to viruses, and these tips are targeted towards Windows XP users:

• Be familiar with the Taskbar notification area. This is the area of the Taskbar that shows the time and several types of mini icons. The list of displayed icons can be expanded or collapsed by clicking the arrow symbol in the notification area. The notification area provides important information for you.

• Be sure to pay attention to any pop-up balloons that point to icons in the notification area. These balloons provide information about software updates or software conditions that you need to be aware of.

• Do you see a yellow shield icon? If so, this means that Windows updates need to be installed. These updates are often security related and should be installed as soon as they are available. Just click the icon and follow the on-screen prompts.

• Do you see a red shield icon? If so, immediately click the icon to find out more about the alert. If you see a message that your computer might be at risk because virus protection is turned off, contact the Helpdesk immediately for assistance.

• Do you see a red "M" icon with an exclamation point? This indicates that McAfee VirusScan may not be updating properly. Contact the Helpdesk immediately for assistance.

• Read more about protecting yourself from viruses spread through e-mail in this Intercom article.

ITS Helpdesk
helpdesk@ithaca.edu
4-3282
102 Muller Center

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