Computers can be attacked by viruses, Spyware, spam and hackers. A computer virus is a small program that spreads from one computer to another and it may corrupt or delete data from a computer and eventually take over the computer. An email virus travels as an attachment and sometimes does not even require a double-click. The virus can launch as the infected message is viewed in the preview pane!

Spyware is software hidden in a computer that gathers personal information and transfers to an outside source. Some indications that Spyware is on a computer:

• Computer slows down or "hangs"
• Home page changes
• The number of "pop-up" ads increases
• Pop-up ads appear when not surfing the Internet

Symantec Antivirus is the recommended, Emory-supported antivirus software for Macs and PCs. It is available to qualified members of the Emory community at no charge from http://software.emory.edu

For effective protection, you must run Symantec Antivirus LiveUpdate often. To download the latest virus definitions or schedule automatic updates visit Symantec Antivirus LiveUpdate for instructions to manually update. Here are steps for securing computers recommended by Emory.

While there is always risk to your computer and data associated with online activities, a few simple guidelines can minimize that risk. Here are some simple steps to follow for Online Computer Safety.

If your computer gets hacked or infected by a virus:

• Immediately unplug network connection and disconnect from the wireless network. Then scan your entire computer with fully updated antivirus software.
• If your computer is no longer able to connect to the campus network, it might have been automatically removed from the system when the network detected a threat originating from your computer.
• Contact the Oxford College Cleanroom to have your computer cleaned and put back on line.