ANTIVIRUS AND SECURITY GUIDELINES

Adhere to the following guidelines and tips for protecting your computer system from email computer viruses:

• Do not open e-mail attachments from unknown parties. Even a Microsoft Word document that seems innocent enough (a joke list) may contain dangerous cargo that will execute upon opening.  Delete this type of email.
• Do not open e-mail attachments that end with .zip .exe, .bat, .com or .vbs extensions. These attachments are programs -- not data files -- and are the most common way to infect a computer system. Be especially careful of attachments that look like resume.txt.vbs. The .txt is not the file extension, the .vbs is and this file contains a Visual Basic script that can potentially devastate an entire network.  Delete this type of email.
• Clear your MS Outlook Deleted Items Folder immediately after deleting any suspected computer viruses.  Use your mouse and Right-Click the Deleted Items Folder and then select ‘Empty Deleted Items Folder.’
• Viruses can break into your e-mail address book and e-mail the virus to all of your friends and contacts. They think they are receiving e-mail from a trusted source. This is why it is very important to check the extensions on any attachments.
• Never visit an Internet link e-mailed from an unknown or suspicious source. The link may point your browser to a Web site that can infect your network with a JavaScript applet.
• Call our office at extension 5312 to submit a work order for the installation of the computer anti-virus program adopted for our college computers.  IT Technical Support staff will instruct you on how to keep your anti-virus software up-to-date.

All college Internet/Email users are expected to be familiar with and comply with the Internet Guidelines and Policy at the following Web link: Internet Usage Policies

Violations of these policies can lead to revocation of electronic communications system privileges and/or disciplinary action.  Such suspected violations will be confidentially reported to the appropriate supervisors.