Computer viruses: Don’t allow your Staff PC to be an easy target
08 Mar 2011
Follow a few simple steps to security
Every year, during February and March, the IT Service Desk receives a high number of calls from staff and students relating to virus infections. The peak coincides with many Schools’ thesis and dissertation deadlines. IT Service Desk records show that a high percentage of computers become infected from USB memory sticks or email attachments.
As most people are aware, USB drives can be a breeding ground for nasty computer viruses. Email attachments are a favourite hiding place for viruses and forwarding emails with infected attachments is a very easy way for them to spread.
Most recently, Scareware is the biggest threat. Scareware is malicious software which masquerades as a legitimate program, most commonly as an anti-virus program. If a virus scanner message unexpectedly pops up on your screen the best advice is never to click on it unless you are entirely sure it is a legitimate program. If in doubt, contact:
It’s just not worth putting your files and computer at risk by failing to follow a few simple steps to security. Before even thinking about using a USB stick or downloading and forwarding email attachments, be sure your Virus Scanner is fully patched and up to date as detailed below. In addition, it is good practice to hold down the shift key before inserting your USB drive into your PC.
To check your Virus Scanner is up-to-date@
Note: Instructions may vary slightly depending on which version of McAfee you are using.
- Right-click on the McAfee icon at the bottom right-hand corner of your screen. This is a shield with either ‘M’ or ‘V’ in it. Click ‘About…’ or “About VirusScan Enterprise”.
- In the window that appears, look for ‘DAT Created On’. You may need to scroll down to see this.
- If the date that appears next to ‘DAT Created On’ is two days before today, one day before today or today’s date your virus checker is up to date.
To update your McAfee VirusScan:
- Right-click on the McAfee icon at the bottom right-hand corner of your screen.
- Click ‘Update Security’ or “Update Now”.
If you suspect your PC has a virus (or Scareware):
- If possible, run a Virus Scan by right clicking on the red M or blue shield icon in the bottom right hand corner of the screen next to the clock, select Scan Computer for… > Threats, then click Start in the window that appears. You can carry on working while the scan is in progress.
- Any viruses or scareware detected will usually be automatically deleted, but if not, this will be made clear and please call the IT Service Desk for advice on how to proceed.
For further help and support, contact:
You can find more information on Scareware on: