Security / Privacy Information
Overview
If you do not properly protect your computer you could be hacked or infected with a virus within minutes of plugging into the FW network. If your computer gets severely infected, then in order to clean your system, IT may recommend completely earsing your hard drive and re-installing Windows and all of your applications. It is highy critical that you follow these basic steps.
Microsoft Windows Security Center
Open the Security Center: Start --> Control Panel --> Security Center
MSUFWHOME Domain Users
- Windows Firewall
- Windows Firewall is a protective boundary that monitors and restricts information that travels between your computer and a network or the Internet. This provides a line of defense against someone who might try to access your computer from outside the Windows Firewall without your permission.
- Windows Firewall should always be Turned On
- Automatic Updates
- When you turn on Automatic Updates, your computer routinely checks the for high-priority updates that can help protect your computer from the latest viruses and other security threats. These updates can include security updates, critical updates, and service packs. Depending on the setting you choose, your computer automatically downloads and installs any high-priority updates that your computer needs, or notifies you as these updates become available.
- Select the best option that suits your needs, we recommend setting the Automatic Updates to Automatic.
All Other Users
- Windows Firewall
- Windows Firewall should always be Turned On
- Automatic Updates
- Select the best option that suits your needs, we recommend setting the Automatic Updates to Automatic.
- Virus Protection
- Antivirus software helps protect your computer from viruses and worms. The worst viruses and worms can make your computer inoperable. Help prevent this by installing an antivirus program.
- Depending on what AntiVirus software you have installed on your computer, Windows may not be able to monitor it. To avoid unwanted notifications from Windows, you may want to disable the monitor.
- Click on the "Recomendations..." button.
- Click to check the "I have an antivirus program that I'll monitor myself..." checkbox. This will force Windows to stop monitoring your AntiVirus software.
- If you do have a version of AntiVirus software that allows Windows to monitor itself, then you may disregard this section.
Adware / Spyware software
Be aware of Opening Email Attachments
Many of the most common computer viruses and other malicious software are spread through email attachments (files that are sent along with an email message). If a file attached to an email message contains a virus, it's often launched when you open the file attachment (usually by double-clicking the attachment icon). No matter what email program you use, you can help avoid some viruses by following a few basic rules.
- Don't open any attachment unless you know whom it's from and you were expecting it.
- If you receive an email message with an attachment from someone you don't know, delete it immediately.
- Use antivirus software and keep it updated.
- If you need to send an email attachment to someone, let them know you'll be sending it so they don't think it's a virus.
Always Use Strong Passwords
Strong passwords are important because they are the first line of defense against attacks on your computer, but more importantly they protect your identity.
Your Password should address the following requirements
- Minimum 7 Characters long
- Does not contain your First Name or Last Name or Username
- Finally the password should contains characters from at least three of the following four categories:
- Uppercase characters (A - Z)
- Lowercase characters (a - z)
- Base 10 digits (0 - 9)
- Non-alphanumeric (for example: !, $, #, or %)
