Malware: Viruses, Trojans, and Spyware
Malware, short for malicious software, consists of programming (code, scripts, active content, and other software) designed to disrupt or deny operation, gather information that leads to loss of privacy or exploitation, gain unauthorized access to system resources, and other abusive behavior. (excerpted from Wikipedia: Malware)
What can I do about Malware?
For Students
In order to keep students up to date with their class assignments and to keep SSU a safe computing environment, it is highly recommended that students have antivirus software on their personal computer when connecting to our network. It is recommended that for your computer is scanned once a week and that your software is configured to look for new virus definitions from the software company that made it. While the specific choice of software is ultimately up to the student, below is a sample list of popular free and paid antivirus options.
Note: Any existing antivirus software must be removed from your computer before installing a new antivirus software. Failure to do so may cause problems with system performance, internet connectivity, and lower the effectiveness of the antivirus protection.
Free Antivirus Options
Windows Defender (Windows 8 & 10)
Windows Defender is a Microsoft antivirus solution that comes pre-installed on every computer with Windows 8 or later. Because Windows Defender is made by Microsoft to integrate seamlessly into the Windows Operating System, it tends to be an effective, fast, and nonintrusive option. The SSU IT Help Desk highly recommends this choice. It is not possible to remove Windows Defender, so if you decide to use a third party antivirus solution instead, the new software will automatically disable the built in antivirus.
Microsoft Security Essentials (Windows 7)
Microsoft Security Essentials is a Microsoft antivirus solution that can be downloaded for free directly from Microsoft. Like Windows Defender, this software is designed to integrate seamlessly into the Windows Operating System and is therefore highly recommended for those running Windows 7.
Paid Antivirus Options
If you are protected and happen to still get infected, please bring your computer to the IT Help Desk in Schulz 1000 and we can help you get the malware removed.
For Staff and Faculty
If you have a state tagged computer and believe that you may be infected please turn off your computer and contact the Help Desk at 664-4357.