Keeping Your Computer Virus-Free

Last updated November 6, 2012 11:14:04 AM PST

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Use these guidelines to keep your system free of viruses.

Find out if your system is infected.

If you suspect you have a virus, contact your department computer/ technical support person.
For rechargeable technical support, contact ACMS Desktop Support, (858) 822-0047.

Never put a disk from an unknown source into your computer.
Never open an attachment you receive via e-mail, unless you are expecting the attachment from a trusted source.
Make sure that others who use your computer do not put a disk from an unknown source into your computer or visit a website that could expose your system to a virus.
If you have a program you'd like to install on your computer, and you aren't 100% sure the new program is virus-free, check with your department's computer/ technical support person before you proceed with installation.
Use an up-to-date antivirus program, preferably one that also scans for Trojan horse programs. Scan all files coming into your computer.
Don't use illegal (pirated) copies of software. The program could have a virus or Trojan horse.

Keep your original software on write-protected disks.
Back up your files at least once a week — or more often if you don't want to risk losing a week's work. Test your backups to be sure they can be restored.

Check the minimum network security standards to be sure your computer is compliant with UCSD's requirements.
See the ACMS Downloading center for UCSD users for more expert and detailed information, and links to anti-virus software websites.
- Sophos Endpoint Protection is available for use on UCSD-owned devices. To gain access to the download site, send a request to support-sophos@ucsd.edu

Contact your departmental computer/ technical support person or ACMS Desktop Support, (858) 822-0047.