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Table of Contents
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What is Malware?
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Malware is an umbrella term for various types of malicious software. This term encompasses:
Common symptoms of a malware infection include slow computer performance; difficulty registering or accessing the network; the inability to run software updates or anti-virus software such as McAfee; and unexplained pop-up warnings, errors, or ads. Student-owned computers suspected of having any kind of malware infection can be dropped off free of charge at the ITS Helpdesk from 8 am–5 pm Monday–Friday. |
Tips to Help Avoid Infections
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While it is true that there are far fewer infections for Mac computers, Macs are not invulnerable and can be infected. In addition, infected files may be transferred via Mac as, for example, email attachments. Don't assume you don't need to be protected or be careful just because you're on a Mac! |
It's nearly impossible to guarantee a way to avoid infections, but here are some good things to keep in mind:
Have active and up-to-date anti-malware software: Anti-malware software is important in keeping your personal machine safe and usable. We believe that the default anti-virus programs on personal machines, Windows Defender and macOS built in defenses, are sufficient at keeping your laptop clean. A helpful addition would be to download a free scanning software, such as Malwarebytes, to run a full scan of your machine every week. We believe those two things in tandem should keep your computer virus free.
There are more extensive, all-in-one tools which you can purchase, often on a subscription model. If you choose such a tool, you must ensure that you keep the subscription up-to-date. If you don't, the software will stop updating itself and will be unable to detect the most recent malware releases and variations.
Pause and consider links and downloads before clicking and installing: Even trusted sources sometimes get hacked and can provide infected content. Take a moment and think about how likely it is that the action you're about to take will be safe—were you expecting that attachment? Do you really need that software to do what you're doing?
Be suspicious of very scary warning messages: They're almost always malware themselves, especially if you have to click or install something to further scan your computer.
Ask questions: If you're not sure about something, and don't know how to proceed, stop by the ITS Helpdesk or give us a call at 507-222-5999, and we will help you out.
For Help
If your computer is infected and you're not able to remove the malware, you can:
- For a Carleton-owned or student-owned computer, bring it to the ITS Helpdesk (x5999).
- For all other devices, contact a local computer repair service.
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This page has been moved. See this page in our new Knowledge Base: Malware |