CIPS Virus Emergency "Top 10" Tips:
(Preventative)
- Always use an anti-virus program and obtain frequent updates.
- Purchase and install the latest anti-virus program and configure it to run when e-mail is received, even if your computer is not currently infected. (e.g. Norton Anti-Virus).
- Regularly backup important computer files.
- Never open suspicious* e-mail.
- Contact the author before opening unexpected e-mail to verify that he/she sent it or just delete the e-mail.
(Corrective)
- Ensure that your e-mail reader's attachment security is set to "high."
- Do your homework. Visit credible web site links to obtain more information about the computer virus.
- Obtain helpful advice from an IT professional/CIPS member.
- Do not be afraid to ask questions. (The more you know, the better off you will be in the end.)
- Always use an anti-virus program and obtain frequent updates.
*suspicious e-mail:
- Contains attachment(s) from someone you don't recognize.
- Mail from someone you do know, but has an odd or conflicting message (e.g. 'I love you' from a business associate, etc.)
- Any attachment that ends in .vbs, .exe, .js, .bat, etc.
- Any mail that asks you to send it to everyone in your address book.
Web Site LINKS to Information Sources re: Computer Viruses
CERT (Computer Emergency Response Team)
Virus Bulletin
Network Associates
Symantec Software Company
Computer Associates
F-Secure Corporation
Trend Micro (PC-Cillin, Office Scan, Scan Mail)
Computer Myths Home page
CNET Networks Inc.
ZIFF-DAVIS (ZD) Inc.
CIPS Quote...
"E-mail should be treated as you would anyone knocking at your door. Don't open e-mail from strangers and make sure the e-mails are who they say they are."
