Ithaca College

As is being reported in the media, a number of organizations around the world have been hit by a major ransomware attack. Ransomware is a kind of malicious software, similar to computer viruses, that encrypts user files and then holds them hostage demanding payment for the keys to decrypt them. DIIS is not aware of any IC computers that have fallen victim to ransomware as part of this attack, but there’s no reason to think we will not be affected.

In order to avoid losing your files to ransomware, there are three things you must do:

1.  Restart your computer if security updates are waiting.

a.  On Windows computers, open the Start Menu and look for an orange exclamation point icon next to the Shut down button. If it’s there, updates are waiting and you must shut down (and restart as necessary) your computer or remain vulnerable

b.  On Macintosh computers, open the Apple menu, and click “About This Mac.” In the system window that open up, click software update. Restart if prompted.

2.  Avoid dangerous behaviors

a.  If you receive an email message you didn’t expect (even if it seems to come from someone you know), think twice about whether you should open attachments or click on links in the message. Simply reading an email is seldom enough become infected, but malicious attachments and web links can take advantage of security flaws in various browsers and software.

3.  Back up your files

a.  Applying security updates and restarting when necessary are the best things you can do to avoid malware, including ransomware. However, no computer is ever totally invulnerable.

b.  In order to protect your data, you should make sure it’s backed up to a removable hard drive, an online backup system, or to a file service like Mentor or OneDrive for Business

Please contact the DIIS Service Desk with any questions.

Digital Instruction and Information Services (DIIS)
Service Desk
servicedesk@ithaca.edu
104 Job Hall
607-274-1000