How Do I Know If My Computer is Safe?

Computer security is a concern that all computer owners should take seriously.  A breach of your computer's security could lead to:

• Disclosure of personal information leading to credit fraud, identify theft, etc.
• Destruction of personal files and permanent loss of data
• Disruption of your computer's operating system or software that could require a complete wipe and reinstall of the operating system and all programs. 
• In rare cases, permanent physical damage to your computer requiring return to the manufacturer for replacement or repair

There are steps you can take to reduce the risk of security problems with your computer.  The following list is a good start:

• Install and KEEP-UPDATED an Anti-virus software program.  Regular updates to the database of known viruses are critical to maintain the software's ability to detect new viruses.  The University of Maine system provides "Symantec Anti-Virus" software for each staff, faculty and student to install on one personally-owned computer (Windows or Mac).  Please check with your campus computer support staff to obtain this software.
• Apply Operating System security updates regularly.  Microsoft, Apple and the Linux community maintain simple systems for deploying critical security updates.  Windows users should visit http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com regularly to check for updates.  Windows users should turn on "Automatic Updates" in their computer's properties. 
• Set passwords on all user accounts on your computer.  Disable unused accounts.  In Windows 2000 and XP, you can manage user accounts from the Control Panel | User Accounts icon.
• In Windows, instead of Internet Explorer consider using a less-vulnerable Web browser, for example Mozilla or Firefox - http://www.mozilla.org  However, some websites only function properly with IE, so don't remove it from your computer.
• Install a Pop-up blocker to block malicious website pop-up windows.  Windows XP Service Pack 2 installs a pop-up blocker for Internet Explorer.  http://www.google.com provides a free pop-up blocker, as well as http://www.yahoo.com.  Mozilla and Firefox include their own http://www.mozilla.org
• In Windows, strongly consider NOT using Outlook Express.  If you own Office XP or Office 2003 Professional, (with the "Outlook" email, contacts and task management), only use it after applying all security settings recommended by Microsoft and third-party security websites. (Note: Outlook Express and Outlook are two different programs.  Outlook Express is included with all Windows computers, Outlook is a program included in the Microsoft Office suite.)
• Install and KEEP UP TO DATE a reputable Anti-Spyware Program.  Many Anti-Spyware programs advertised on the internet are actually SPYWARE!  One reliable free program, which does not install any spyware of its own, is "Spybot Search and Destroy"  The homepage for this software is: http://security.kolla.de  However, be advised that installing and running Anti-Spyware software on a already infected computer can RENDER THE COMPUTER UNUSABLE.  Proceed at your own risk and read all warnings carefully. 
• Keep your files backed up regularly to external media, e.g., cd-roms, diskette, tape, etc.
• Enable the Windows firewall in Windows XP Service Pack 2.  If it causes problems you can always disable it or allow certain programs to pass their information through the firewall without being hindered.
• If you have a broadband cable or DSL internet connection at home purchase and install an inexpensive Home/Small Office Firewall/Router.   This type of firewall is a small network device that is connected BETWEEN your computer and the cable/dsl modem.  These firewalls make your computer virtually invisible to Internet-based hacker and worm attacks. 
• Limit, or at least be aware of, critical personal information you have stored on your computers.  If your computer is compromised, you should be congnizant if information such as your social security number or credit card numbers were on the computer.