Issue 92 
2nd September 2003
 
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Virus Protection - 9 Steps to Take Control!

If you have a computer and log on to the Internet then it's inevitable that you've had to deal with viruses. If you run a business then it's likely that this has caused a drain on resources and much gnashing of teeth! There are simple steps that you can take to alleviate the problem but the most critical step is to appoint someone to take full responsibility for virus protection throughout the organisation. It is possible that you may have to outsource certain elements and you will need to work with your chosen specialist to identify these requirements. The steps below are a general guideline on actions that should be taken. As different operating systems have different procedures for each step we cannot outline theses in detail - effective implementation should be the responsibility of the chosen internal virus protection officer.

Here's a Checklist for his / her reference...

   
1. Switch off or delete unnecessary software and services. Most operating systems automatically install supplementary services like an FTP or Web server. By removing these, virus attacks can be less effective.
2. When a virus affects a network service, disable this service until a patch (software that will eliminate a fault i.e. will fix a security breach, see FAQ below) is applied. This may mean using your task manager to identify the running processes and end the affected program / service.
3. Always keep your patch levels up-to-date by visiting the operating system suppliers website and downloading the latest service updates and patches, especially on computers that host public services such as HTTP, FTP and mail services. Just visiting certain sites will cause infection if certain browser vulnerabilities aren't patched.
4. Implement a password system as this will limit damage when a computer is infected.
5. Configure your email server to block or remove emails with file attachments that are commonly used to spread viruses, such as .vbs, .bat, .exe, .pif and .scr files (although be careful that you are not blocking necessary emails; that's the challenge!)
6. Isolate infected computers quickly by removing them from the network (i.e. disconnect the network cable)to avoid spreading the virus.
7. A crucial step is to train staff not to open attachments unless they are expected. Even attachments from a known source can be viruses, hiding behind a familiar identity.
8. Keep your anti-virus software up to date.
9. Assign responsibility to one person to make sure the above happens and continues to happen. If necessary train them to perform these tasks. If you do not have someone with the necessary skills consider entering an ongoing service agreement with a local computer company.

 

I know some of you will be saying, its no use telling me to switch off unnecessary services such as FTP (whatever that is!) unless you tell me how to do it. We’d love to do so. Unfortunately, the exact way of following this advice depends on your operating system. The same is true of some of the advice in the other bullet points above.

For more information about security, here’s a link to the official website of the Irish Government’s National Awareness campaign on Computer security www.netsecure.ie