more visually appealing. Double extensions exploit
this by hiding the second, dangerous extension. If
you normally don’t see extensions on your computer
and it all of a sudden appears on a file that you’ve
downloaded, you may have downloaded a malicious
file that is hiding as something else.
8. Scan the Downloaded Files - If you have an antivirus
program installed, make a habit of scanning files
that you’ve downloaded from unknown locations.
Most antivirus programs allow you to immediately
scan as soon as you’ve downloaded specific files by
right-clicking on the file and selecting your antivirus
from the list of options.
EMAILS
9. Don’t Download Attachments from a Sender You Don’t
Know - Email attachments are the most efficient way
that viruses and other malware get spread.
10. Beware of Odd Emails from Companies that have your
Account Information - A legitimate company (includ-
ing your bank, Amazon.com, and Etsy) will never
ask you for passwords or other personal information
through email.
PROTECT YOURSELF
11. Install an antivirus program - An antivirus program will
actively protect your computer from virus infections by scan-
ning active programs and performing scheduled full-system
scans. Scan your computer at least weekly, more often if you
are heavy internet user.
12. Install an anti-spyware program - Beyond viruses, your com-
puter can also get infected with spyware and adware.
13. Enable a firewall - Firewall software protects your networks
ports, which are the “doors” that allow data to be sent back
and forth via the Internet.
14. Be careful with USB drives - USB drives are a popular vehicle
for virus transmissions, usually without the owner being
aware at all. You could get an infection just by inserting a
USB drive in your computer, or could get your own USB
drive infected by plugging it into a computer that is infected.
Try to use other methods for file sharing, such as online stor-
age or email. Many email systems automatically scan received
files before they open them.
15. Keep a Good Backup - If disaster strikes, you don’t want to be
left without access to your important data. A regular backup
schedule will mitigate any damage done by a virus and will
allow your system to get up and running much quicker.
Students * Beware!
Cyberbullying and Sexting
are both against the law ** .
Beyond the personal trauma and humiliation that they each
may cause, these activities can also have significant judicial
ramifications on your life both personally and professionally.
So think before you click.
*Students under 16
** See Electronic Communications Act 2011, section
68 and Criminal Code Act 1907, section 182
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