Overview
Report an Issue:
- If you think you may have disclosed personal information to a hacker due to a malware incident (or any other cyber attack).
- Your computer is warning you about a malicious website or suspicious activity.
- You are encountering unexpected pop-ups or alerts from unfamiliar sites.
What is Malware?
Malware, short for malicious software, encompasses a range of programs designed to negatively impact your computing experience. Viruses tend to receive the most attention, but other forms such as adware and spyware may not be as overtly threatening yet can be equally disruptive. This document will outline the different categories of malware and the recommended actions for their removal or prevention.
Ransomware
Ransomware represents a class of malware that menaces to expose the victim's sensitive data or irrevocably restrict access to personal files until a ransom is remitted to the perpetrator.
Viruses/Worms
A virus is a type of computer program specifically created to install itself covertly on a user’s machine and execute a designated task. Typically, viruses aim to propagate to other systems, facilitate external access to the compromised machine, or corrupt files. Conversely, a worm is generally activated when a user opens an infected email attachment. This worm then exploits the email system and the address books of the infected computer to disseminate further infected emails to other users. Utilizing a reputable virus scanning solution and consistently updating Windows are the most effective strategies to mitigate potential infections. Users should also exercise caution with unsolicited email attachments, even if they appear to originate from known contacts.
Adware/Spyware
Adware is a type of software that is offered to users at no charge or at a reduced price, with the trade-off being the display of advertisements either within the application interface or via separate pop-up windows. While adware is primarily a nuisance due to the interference caused by unwanted pop-ups during usage, it serves a legitimate purpose in the monetization of free software.
Spyware refers to software that utilizes the device's bandwidth to communicate with its parent organization. This software collects data on users' browsing patterns, installed applications, and other relevant information. The gathered data is typically sold for market research purposes or utilized internally by the company to tailor advertisements to users.
When adware and spyware coalesce—often functioning simultaneously—they present a significant intrusion into user privacy, consuming substantial bandwidth and processing power as they engage in communication with their developers and retrieve advertising content. Companies distributing this software frequently employ various tactics to encourage users to install their programs.
Fake Security Warnings: Certain malware prompts are designed to resemble standard security alerts generated by browsers. Users often instinctively accept any prompts that appear to block their access to specific web pages, mistakenly believing they are accepting a legitimate security certificate. By clicking "yes," they inadvertently grant permission for the installation of any software the distributor wishes to introduce to their system. To mitigate such installations, users should read all prompts carefully and determine their necessity before responding. If there is uncertainty, it is safer to decline the request or call the Blinn College Help Desk (979-830-4357 [HELP]) for assistance.
Helpful Hints
Users should take the following steps to be sure their machines are as secure as possible:
- Update Windows Regularly – All Blinn College computers are configured to automatically receive Windows updates, ensuring access to the latest security and functionality improvements. For any laptop or tablet checked out on an extended basis, the user will be required to bring the device to work and log in on campus to let updates download, run, and complete. This must be done every 3 months for the duration of the check out time period.
- Maintain Anti-virus Software– All Blinn computers are equipped with preinstalled anti-virus software that provides continuous scanning for viruses and other potential threats.
- Avoid Untrusted Sites for Media or Software - The most prevalent source of malware stems from illegitimate vendors offering music, movies, books, and software.
- Utilize Blinn College’s Office 365 for Business Activities - Office 365 has ransomware protection inherent to its use of OneDrive, Teams, and Sharepoint.
Additional Information
You may not realize that your device is compromised by malware until it begins to impact performance. Symptoms such as excessive pop-ups or slow internet connectivity might indicate that the system has been "infected."
It is essential to report an issue or contact the Blinn College Help Desk if there are any suspicions of malware presence on your device.
Need additional information or assistance? Call the IT Help Desk at 979-830-4357 (HELP) or contact the IT Help Desk Chat Line.