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Security and computing

Your computer needs multiple layers of protection if it is connected to the internet. To keep your computer protected against viruses and hackers, you must install Critical and Security updates for your Mac or Windows operating system, keep Antivirus installed and up-to-date with the latest virus definitions, and practice common sense and scepticism when reading email or browsing the web. You should also turn on your computer's built-in firewall, or install one if your operating system lacks a firewall. See the links below for more information, and please email help@bio.indiana.edu with any questions.

Install critical and security updates for your operating system

A modern operating system like Mac OS X or Windows XP is a complicated set of programs; each program is a complex set of instructions. Literally millions of instructions long, these operating systems are periodically updated by Apple or Microsoft, respectively, as mistakes are found or new features added. Read this topic to learn how to update your Windows or Macintosh computer and keep it updated on a regular basis.

Use good passwords on your accounts and computers

Don't use blank or simple passwords as these are easy to 'crack', which defeats their purpose. Never give out your passwords, pin numbers, social security number, or bank account or credit card numbers or other private information to anyone who asks via email. Click this topic for more information on password security.

Keep antivirus software installed and up-to-date with virus "definitions"

Symantec Antivirus is the virus-blocking software of choice for Windows computers at IU (and for Macs as well, though there are 1,000 times as many Windows viruses as Mac viruses so antivirus is absolutely critical for Windows). New viruses are spotted on the internet daily, and so new virus 'definitions' are released by Symantec almost every day. Read more to learn how to install and use Symantec Antivirus and keep virus definitions updated.

Keep a firewall activated on your computer

You computer's firewall restricts access to your computer by other computers on the internet, blocking attempts by hackers and network-borne viruses to infiltrate your Mac or Windows computer while it's connected to the internet. A firewall is not a substitute for Critical Updates or Antivirus software but an additional and important layer of protection.  Read more to learn how to install and use firewall software on your computer.

Turn off services that aren't needed on your computer

Although it is possible to configure OS X and Windows computers as servers - making their files and folders accessible to other computers - this can make your computer more vulnerable to viruses and hackers.  For maximum security turn off file sharing and other services; if file sharing or other services are necessary then its important to configure them properly to minimize the risks.  Read more to learn how to deactivate services on your computer.

Practice scepticism and common sense when reading emails and web pages

Be careful what you click on so that you don't accidentally download viruses or spyware, and don't get drawn in by scams or hoaxes. Viruses infect your computer and can steal passwords and other personal info. Spyware is notorious for impairing computer performance and popping ads onto the screen. Scam artists use a variety of pleas to trick you into giving away credit card or bank account numbers, social security numbers, or other sensitive personal information that they can use for identity theft. Hoaxes are similar but try to trick you into deleting files on your own hard drive or other foolishness. Read more for tips on avoiding these hazards.

Be aware of IU and departmental computing policy

Indiana University and departmental computing policy applies to all computers in department labs and offices connected to the IU network, either wirelessly or via ethernet cable.  Most importantly, there are policies against copyright infringement that apply to downloaded music, and an obligation to keep critical/security updates and antivirus software up to date on your computers so they don't become a hazard to other computers on the network.