Anti-Virus & Security

Anti-Virus software | Secure IT - it’s your responsibility

Anti-Virus software

Computer systems are under constant attack from malware - malevolent programs designed to infiltrate your PC without your consent, causing undesirable and often harmful effects. Your PC could be found and attacked by malware within seconds of being attached to a network, with potentially fatal consequences for hardware, systems and data.

We provide comprehensive virus protection to all networked University PCs and Macs on campus to detect and deal with viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, suspicious files, suspicious behaviour, adware and PUAs (potentially unwanted applications).

For information about our current Anti-virus solution, visit www.abdn.ac.uk/dit/antivirus

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Secure IT - it’s your responsibility

The University has drawn up a set of ten Golden Rules to help remind staff of the importance of information security in every aspect of our daily work.

1. We are ALL responsible for IT Security.
2. Passwords. Make them strong; keep them safe; never share them; and change them regularly.
   • See our password rules at www.abdn.ac.uk/local/passwd/changepwd
3. NEVER reveal your username and password combination – to anyone.
   • Not even the Service Desk will ask you to reveal your password.
4. Always lock your PC – or log off completely – whenever you leave it unattended for even a short period of time.
   • It only takes a second or two for someone to access your files.
5. Always protect your user identity, at work and at home.
   • Don’t share access to your PC with strangers.
   • Don’t store sensitive personal information, such as bank account numbers, on your PC.
6. Ensure your sensitive data is safe and suitably encrypted when mobile.
   • If using a USB stick to transport sensitive data, make it a SafeStick.
7. Always use electronic communication with care.
   • Don’t open e-mails or attachments from unknown sources
8. Use anti-virus software and keep it up to date.
   • Ensure your PC is protected from viruses and malware by running anti-virus software.
9. Be cautious when using the internet.
   • Never download files from an unknown source.
10. Never cause offence or break the law when using University IT facilities.
    • See our Conditions for using IT Facilities, and guidelines on Email Etiquette and E-Copyright.

For help, advice, and to report ALL IT incidents, contact DIT on: servicedesk@abdn.ac.uk or x3636.

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