Tips for staying safe
It takes a combination of measures to help protect your data and devices from infection.
Download anti-virus software
If your anti-virus software is not up to date, or you do not have any installed, you should download free anti-virus software. All University managed computers have anti-virus installed by default.
Stay up to date
If you manage your own computer (that is, if it is not automatically updated by IT Services) you are responsible for ensuring that all software you use is kept up-to-date with the security patches released by the software provider. If ever in doubt about what to install, contact the IT Support Centre.
Scan for viruses
Do not assume that the USB flash drive someone gives you is safe to use – always scan it for viruses before accessing any of the files on it, by right clicking the drive icon and selecting the scan option.
Stop and think
Stop and think before you open an email attachment or visit an unfamiliar website – these are the most common ways to accidentally pick up malware (malicious software).
If in doubt - log out
If you suspect your computer has been infected, log out immediately and telephone the IT Support Centre on 0161 306 5544.
