A r c h i v e d I n f o r m a t i o n
Watch Your Back — Don't Fall Victim to Computer Threats
It's important to be aware of some of the common signs that a virus has invaded your computer or, possibly, that someone has gained unauthorized access to your computer. Here are a number of signs that may indicate trouble:
- Your machine reboots for no reason, or repeatedly, when certain files are accessed.
- The amount of memory in your hard drive "magically" decreases.
- Your system or applications repeatedly crash for no reason.
- Strange messages appear on your screen, or your computer tells you that files are missing.
- Your anti-virus software sends you messages or alarms.
- A strange User ID appears in the log-on box when you turn on your computer.
To help protect your information, take the following precautions:
- "Password protect" your workstation screensaver, and set the screensaver to kick in after three to five minutes of inactivity. Please be aware that you should disable the password protection when you have a technician scheduled to repair your machine.
- Do not give people your password.
- Log off at the end of every workday.
- If you work from home, make sure your personal computer is running current virus scanning software that is updated regularly.
