Viruses and mass-mailing worms, similar to the W32.Sobig.E@mm Virus that hit Penn State recently, are becoming increasingly common and insidious. A virus or worm infection can result in private and, in some cases, sensitive data being inadvertently and randomly sent via e-mail as a result of a compromised computer. According to University computer experts, it is essential that antivirus software be installed on all computers connected to the Penn State network and that virus definitions are updated weekly to ensure that the University computing community is protected.
Information Technology Services strongly encourages University community members who do not use antivirus software to obtain and install Symantec's Norton Antivirus software at no cost through Penn State Computer Store's Web site at http://computerstore.psu.edu/softwaredist/. Once the software is installed, users should scan their entire systems for "missed" viruses, now and biweekly. Virus definition files should be updated more frequently when a virus or worm is spreading.
For additional assistance, call the ITS Consulting and Support Help Desk at (814) 863-2494 or (814) 863-1035. If an infected e-mail is received, forward it (with full headers showing so it can be traced) to virus@psu.edu. General information and guidance on viruses can also be found on the ITS Virus Information Web site at http://its.psu.edu/virus.html.