We suspect LBCC may be included in a focused 'email campaign' to infect devices with RANSOMWARE. Ransomware typically comes from email containing links to infected or hacked websites. Several LBCC employees are reporting a significant increase in suspicious email messages containing links to websites. Recently, PSU and Newberg-area businesses were also targeted:
PSU Students Fall Victim to Ransomware
How you can avoid infection -- here and at home
Never click on links in email unless it's absolutely necessary and you're 100% sure it's legitFLOAT-OVER! Pass your mouse over links in messages and compare it with the URL that appears at the bottom of your browser:
- Be very cautious when searching or surfing the internet
- -- avoid unknown sites
- Do not download software or other files
- Never give passwords via email or phone
- Do not use USB flash drives that are not yours, or used on devices not yours
- Verify that anti-virus software is installed and current
Keep Windows Updates current
Be prepared -- have an offline backup of important data (USB thumb drive, or disk drive stored in your desk)
How LBCC protects your computer
- folders known to be targeted for ransomware installation are blocked
- a perimeter firewall scans for malware
- desktop protection scans downloads and websites (Symantec 'Network Threat Protection')
Your data is still vulnerable
Firewall and Anti-virus software are not capable of 100% detection. None of the protective measures listed above prevent our users from surfing the internet, downloading or installing software, or clicking links in email messages. YOU are the greatest vulnerability. Please take the time to learn about the risks, and how to avoid them.If you have additional concerns, questions, or would like someone from IS to make sure your computer is secure, please contact the Staff Help Desk at x4333.
Shelly Ellingson
