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Additional
Information
Information - Virus Alert
Computer viruses represent a significant and growing threat to personal computers and department servers. Use, and regular update, of anti-virus software is a critical element of security protection.
The University holds a license for the McAfee Virus Scan product that affords you the protection against known viruses. Most newer computer come with Norton Anti-Virus, and it is necessary to keep the virus definition updated. Free download at (http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/download.html). If you are not running an anti-virus software on your computer, please contact the helpdesk x4357 (Help) to get the McAfee Virus Scan software installed on your computer.
Securing Microsoft Outlook
Most viruses to date have focused on utilizing Outlook to propagate themselves by sending copies of the message to people in your Outlook contacts directory. Microsoft has a security patch for Outlook that makes it more difficult for these viruses to be launched, this security patch can be found at the URL:
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/virus/vbslvltr.asp
What to do if infected by a virus
First, call the MSU Helpdesk, x4357. If you can't reach us or you are using your home computer you may wish to download a free copy of Trend Micro's SWAT program to check your computer, http://www.antivirus.com/SWAT.EXE. Save this to disk and then run the program, it will search your system to see if you are infected and remove the improper entries to your registry. For more on SWAT, http://www.antivirus.com/corporate/media/2000/pr050500.htm.
Disabling Windows Scripting Host
Some users may wish to disable Windows Scripting Host. Windows Scripting Host can help to automate various tasks within the Windows environment, but it can also be exploited by viruses running visual basic attachments. Disabling this feature will keep scripts from executing.
To disable Windows Scripting Host on Windows 98
Select Start -> Settings -> Control Panel.Double-click Add/Remove Programs
Choose the Windows Setup tab (middle tab)
Double-click on "Accessories" and make sure Windows Scripting Host is deselected (no checkmark).Virus information Background
