Computer Wellness and the New Trend Office Scan

Heather Stevens

 

Western is running a Computer Wellness campaign to promote awareness and understanding of the many aspects of computer security. Some of the topics pertaining to computer security include: using Windows Updates to keep your computer operating system updated; using current anti-virus software; avoiding scams (phishing); how not to get a virus; backup; and keeping your computer safe from thieves. For more information on Computer Wellness@Western go to www.wellness.uwo.ca/wellness.html

Phishing is a common form of online identity theft. Most phishing attacks start as legitimate looking e-mail messages which either request your personal financial information in a reply or direct you to an official looking website to update this information. Newer methods of phishing involve malicious software (trojans) that are unknowingly installed on your computer.

Trend Officescan v 7.0, which was installed on the SSC Network in the fall, now detects malware such as adware, spyware, and trojans to help protect against some forms of phishing. Your computer should have already been automatically updated to this new version of Officescan. Please confirm that your computer has received these updates, while also checking that it is displaying the correct pattern file version: To do this follow the instructions found at:

ssnds.uwo.ca/notices/trendversions.html.

When the new version of Trend Officescan was deployed to users, many adware and spyware programs were detected and cleaned up. Adware and spyware problems within the Social Science building were noticeably reduced.

It is always best to employ safe computing practices so that you can protect yourself against Zero day exploits. These are exploits against a vulnerability for which a patch does not exist. Safe computing practices can also minimize risk to your computer in the event that your Windows Updates or anti-virus software fails to update. Here are some recommendations:

  • Never open an e-mail attachment from someone you don’t know.
  • Check with the sender before opening an unexpected attachment.
  • Exercise caution when downloading files from the Internet. Read the entire license agreement when installing free software from the Internet.
  • Try to surf only to known, reputable sites.
  • Never click on links in any pop-up advertisements.