Ithaca College

If you use or manage a Windows computer, it is imperative that you make sure that Windows Updates are up to date. A virus known as the Conficker.c worm is reportedly going to be activated on unprotected Windows computers on Wednesday, April 1.

For College-owned Windows XP computers, check the taskbar icons (where the computer time is displayed, usually the lower right of the screen) for a yellow shield icon. If the shield is present, it means Windows updates need to be installed. Click the shield and follow the prompts. These updates are often security related and should be installed whenever notifications for new ones appear.

Even if the computer you use everyday is already updated, what about other computers in your area, such as special purpose computers, student workstations, and laptops? These machines need to be updated too!

If you haven't been diligent about installing Windows Updates, the worm might already be on your computer in a dormant state. One sign of the worm's presence is the inability to get to some Web sites (usually sites that could help you detect and remove the worm), such as www.microsoft.com or www.mcafee.com. Another possible sign is disabled anti-virus software.

If you don't see any indications that your computer is infected, just make sure you do the Windows Updates to prevent infection. If you think your computer is already infected, McAfee provides the W32/Conficker Stinger v10.0.1.537 tool at http://vil.nai.com/vil/averttools.aspx.

For help with college-owned computers, contact the Helpdesk.

Students may contact the Student Computer Repair Center for assistance.

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