Malware comes in many forms including viruses, trojans, worms, spyware, and adware, and is often installed through downloading programs or visiting malicious websites. It is important to keep antivirus software updated, use firewalls, be wary of emails requesting personal information, and think critically about unexpected messages in order to protect against malware, social engineering, and phishing attempts. While antivirus software may not catch everything, it provides effective protection against many threats if it is used and updated regularly. Personal information posted publicly can be used by scammers in phishing messages, so be cautious of unknown senders even on special occasions.

1. Virus, Trojans & Worms. Oh My!Malware can be a computer virus, trojan horse, worm, spyware, or adware.Malware is often installed by downloading programs such as screensavers, games, “free” software or by visiting malicious Web sites.

2. Malware ProtectionSection: Virus, Trojans & WormsKeep your antivirus software updated to protect your computer from the latest malware. Set up the free Symantec Antivirus available to all UNC-Chapel Hill affiliates with a valid Onyen. Use firewall software to prevent unwanted communications with your computer.

3. Malware ProtectionSection: Virus, Trojans & WormsObtain and install computer firewall to protect against any unauthorized or unwanted computing activity. Call the ITS Help Desk at (919.962.HELP) with your questions on how to protect a computer against malware.

4. Social Engineering & Phishing – What Is It?Section: Virus, Trojans & WormsSocial engineeringused by criminals to try to manipulate you into disclosing Sensitive Information Phishinga form of social engineering that uses fake email messages to trick you into disclosing confidential information

5. Social Engineering & Phishing ProtectionSection: Virus, Trojans & WormsBe suspicious of email attachments and unexpected email messages.Think twice before clicking on any link, including those in an email, pop-ups or ads. Be wary of emails asking for personal or financial information.Call (919.962.HELP) to determine whether a suspect email is legitimate.

6. Learning Point # 9Section: Virus, Trojans & WormsThere is so much malware on theInternet, it makes little difference whether you have antivirus softwareinstalled and updated on your computer Right?Wrong! Antivirus software may not detect all malware, but it is free for University staff and faculty and provides, if regularly updated, an effective tool against many viruses and other types of malware.

7. Learning Point # 10Section: Virus, Trojans & WormsIt’s your birthday and you get a lot of messages from your MySpace friends. Some of the names do not sound familiar, but since it’s your birthday, you may as well enjoy the greeting cards. Right?Wrong! If your profile on your favorite social networking is public, it may contain your actual birthdate. Social engineering scammers will use personal information on public sites to target individuals with phishing messages. Never open attachments or download files in messages from unknown senders.