Because malware (malicious software) such as viruses and trojans are a constant threat to all computer users, Stern strongly recommends that all students install a working Anti-virus software with regularly scheduled scans and updates to prevent infections. Here are some additional sources and How-to-guides on computer security and malware prevention:

• To get a free copy of Symantec Anti-virus, see the Virus FAQ.
• For general information and new alerts, please visit Security Central.
• For a step-by-step guide on using Symantec Anti-virus click here.
• Visit the Symantec website.

Unfortunately, new viruses and variants without any available anti-virus definitions still manage to make it into our systems through email and shared networks. This guide will provide instructions on how to treat your system once it has been infected.

1. Update your Anti-virus Definitions.

We suggest setting your Anti-virus to run automatic updates, however many viruses are now programmed to disable your Live Updates so that you must run them manually. You can update your virus definition files manually by opening the program and clicking on Live Update. Another option is visiting the website of the software manufacturer and looking for a section on virus definition updates. If you are using Symantec Anti-virus, click here for definition updates.

2. Run a Full Scan on your PC.

To scan your computer for virus infections with Symantec software, click on the Scan option in the menu on the left, then select Scan computer. You will be given a menu for you to select which drives you would like to scan. The simplest option would be to check the box next to My Computer, which will automatically check all of the boxes below, allowing you to scan every file that your computer currently has access to. If you are certain that a particular drive is safe, you may uncheck the box and click Scan once you are ready. This process can take anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on how many files and programs you have on your hard drive.

The program may find infected files that can be readily treated by quarantine/deleting them, however certain worms and viruses can infect files that are necessary for your computer to run and therefore cannot be deleted. You should write down the names of these once they are found in order to search for the required removal tool.

3. Find and Perform the Virus Removal Procedure.

Visit www.symantec.com where you can find removal tools and instructions under the "Latest Threats" section. You can also search for the virus name in the search form, or locate the name of your virus here. For some viruses, Symantec will provide a removal tool which you can install to your computer and will clean your system once you run it. Other viruses may not have a removal tool available, however you can find instructions on manually restoring your system.

Once you have located these resources, follow the instructions provided to perform the necessary tasks. Always run Windows Updates after treating your system for a virus.

If you need assistance to complete any of these steps please visit the Helpdesk in Tisch Hall UC-49 or contact your computer's manufacturer.