Protecting Yourself from Email Threats

Don't open any attachments you receive in email that you are not expecting!

• How to report: Forward any suspicious email you receive with headers to virus@geneseo.edu.

• Please note: CIT examines every message sent to this address and takes appropriate action. Be aware that messages forwarded without header information will be discarded and no action will be taken.

Built-In Virus Protection

Microsoft and Apple offer virus protection to users through their free products.

• Personal Devices: See our guide on Preparing your Personal Computer for the Geneseo Network.

• Campus-Owned Devices: Campus-owned computers are licensed to install and run Windows Defender and CrowdStrike. For more information, contact the CIT HelpDesk.

Tools to Cure Pop-up Windows, Spyware, and Viruses

Windows Updates

The Microsoft Update website contains critical updates and all Microsoft recommended updates.

• Some of the updates need to be installed one at a time and then require a reboot.

• Continue to go to the Windows Update site until there are no updates left for you to download and install.

MalwareBytes Anti-Malware

One of the best free malware tools for personal computers is MalwareBytes Anti-Malware.

• How to use: Download, install, update, and then scan in safe mode. Your computer will thank you.

SpyBot Search & Destroy

On personal computers, run SpyBot to catch any programs MalwareBytes may have missed.

• Important note: Since SpyBot is free, easily available, and has some somewhat intrusive background processes, you should uninstall it after you use it.

CWShredder

A small utility specifically designed for removing CoolWebSearch (also known as CoolWwwSearch, YouFindAll, White-Pages.ws, and a dozen other names).