Virus Protection

Do we use, and regularly update, anti-virus software?
Computer viruses represent a significant and growing threat to personal computers and department servers. They can allow hackers to commander a computer and use it to launch attacks on other computers inside or outside the University. Virus infections can also destroy data files and cause loss of productive staff time. FSU recognizes the threats from computer viruses, and as a result has obtained site licenses for McAfee Virus Scan. Use, and regular update, of anti-virus software is a critical element of security protection.

The following questions can help clarify the importance of using and maintaining anti-virus software:

• Is McAfee or other anti-virus software installed on all department computers?
• Is a procedure for updating the anti-virus software in place? For personal systems, if this is up to the user, are instructions and recommended update intervals provided?
• If users become infected with a computer virus, do they know what to do?
• Has automatic execution of Microsoft Office macros and visual basic program on all department computers been disabled?
• Have we reminded users to open only attachments they expect?
• Do we advise users that the setting "View my Active Desktop as a web page" can generate virus contamination if visiting a web site that has a virus?

An answer of "no" to any of the above questions indicates a risk for which remedial steps should be considered.