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Computer Viruses - and protection

free Anti-Virus software available for RHUL pc users

Computer viruses are programs designed to replicate and spread, often without indicating that they exist. Some viruses do little damage, but in extreme cases, viruses can damage files and computer disks, resulting in the loss of any work which is stored on them.

Computer viruses are usually spread from one computer to another when a floppy disk used in an infected machine is itself infected and then infects any other machine in which it is used. Another way in which this happens is via infected e-mails or files downloaded from the web.

There are some precautions which you can take to make sure that computer viruses do not infect your PC and/or disks and destroy your work:

If you have your own PC, ensure it has an up-to-date anti-virus program installed on it. Check your memory stick or floppy disks for viruses each time before you start working on a PC. Keep up-to-date copies of your files on more than one floppy disk or USB flash memory drive, so that if one disk does get damaged, you still have another copy with them on. Keep up-to-date copies of your files in the secure file storage area (Y:) drive. Never open e-mails containing attachments that you did not expect to receive. Take great care when downloading files from the web - ensure that you always scan them with up-to-date anti-virus software before using! When browsing take care if a pop-up window unexpectedly displays, for example stating that you have computer problems, as it could hide a virus. Immediately close the window by clicking on its Close button. Do not click on any button provided within the window.

To check removable media for viruses:

	a. Put the disk in or insert the memory stick.
	b. Double-click on the red 'K' next to the clock (bottom right-hand corner of screen)
	Kaspersky Antivirus starts up.
	c. Click on the appropriate Scan option
	d. Click on Scan
	e. Kaspersky will disinfect and/or delete any viruses that are found.
	f. If you need further help, please contact the IT Service Desk.
It is now possible to obtain a free copy (one per user) of Kaspersky Home Suite for RHUL staff and students - further details.

Last updated Fri, 08-Jan-2010 14:35 GMT / RT

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