IT: FAQs: Computer Viruses

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FAQs: Computer Viruses


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	I think my computer might have a virus; what should I do?
	I think a virus has rendered my computer unbootable, or is interfering with the installation of McAfee; what should I do?
	I want to protect my computer from viruses; what options are available?
	I think a virus may have damaged my computer; who can help me?
	I just received an email message from InterScan saying, “InterScan has detected virus(es) in an incoming email attachment.” What does this mean?
	My computer just got infected with a virus, but I only open documents and programs from people I know and trust. How is this possible?

I think my computer might have a virus; what should I do?

The safest way to ensure that your computer is virus free is to install a virus scanner with the most recent virus definition files. IT has a McAfee site license, so anti-virus software is available to all students, staff, and faculty. To download the latest version of McAfee and the latest definition files, or for instructions on installation, visit the Software Download Center. If you are interested in more information on viruses in general, visit the Web site: McAfee Virus Information Library.

I think a virus has rendered my computer unbootable, or a virus is interfering with the installation of McAfee; what should I do?

Depending on your circumstances, there may be several ways to fix this problem. However, the most consistent method involves a McAfee boot disk. You can create your own boot disk if you have access to a machine that already has McAfee installed, or you can have the Help Desk create a disk for you. Once you have the boot disk, simply turn off your computer, place the disk in the drive, turn the computer back on, and follow the instructions on the screen. Call the Help Desk at (989) 774-3662 or go to the Help Desk located in Park Library 101 if you would like a boot disk created for you.

I want to protect my computer from viruses; what options are available?

IT has a site license for McAfee products, so the products are available to all students, staff, and faculty. McAfee not only disinfects current viruses, but will also protect your computer from new infections. To download the latest version of McAfee and the latest definition files, or for instructions on installation, visit the Software Download Center. It is imperative you keep up to date on the latest McAfee virus definition files. If you are on campus and sign in to the Central Domain, this is automatically done for you through SMS (System Management Server). If not, you need to set McAfee to automatically check for updates, or you need to revisit the Software Download Center periodically and update your definitions manually.

I think a virus may have damaged my computer; who can help me?

If you suspect your computer has been damaged by a virus, or if your computer malfunctions for any reason, contact the Help Desk at (989) 774-3662. The Help Desk has two levels of support, both general support and more advanced technical support. In the event that you have an extremely complex issue, or any issue that requires special attention, the Help Desk can redirect your request to on-site computer technicians. Those technicians will schedule an appointment and to work with you directly on your problem. In the event your problem goes to this level, time and material charges may apply.

I just received an email message from InterScan saying, “InterScan has detected virus(es) in an incoming email attachment.” What does this mean?

IT has installed a virus wall that scans all incoming and outgoing email for viruses. If you receive this message, someone has sent you a message containing a virus and the virus wall has removed the message for you. It does not mean you have to be concerned about receiving viruses yourself, but it may indicate that you need to contact the sender, and ask them to resend the attachment.

My computer just got infected with a virus, but I only open documents and programs from people I know and trust. How is this possible?

Most people do not send you viruses intentionally, and most people that have computer viruses do not know they have them. Accepting documents only from people you know and trust is no guarantee that you won’t receive viruses, However, it is a good idea not to open documents and programs from sources you do not know.

For additional assistance, contact the Help Desk at helpdesk@cmich.edu or (989) 774-3662.