How Secure Are Your Devices?
You probably have a lot of personal information and valuable intellectual property stored on your computer that you do not want to lose or have compromised. Identity Theft is one example of how an unsecured system can harm you. But even if you have nothing important on one machine doesn't mean that you shouldn't secure it; if that computer is hacked it could allow access to the rest of your (or Michigan Tech's) network. Some malicious attacks could result in denial of service or destroy your operating system.
About Viruses, Spyware, Adware, and Malware
To keep you computer virus free, it is essential that you keep your anti-virus definitions up-to-date and also run a spyware removal program. Failure to use anti-virus and anti-spyware applications can lead to repeated infections which could lead to poor computer performance, identity theft and costly repairs.
Also see: McAfee AntiVirus Software for Students, Staff, and Faculty
Enable Personal Firewall
Firewalls provide an essential layer of protection to your computer. Enable the basic firewall in your operating system to provide protection from un-patched security holes and hostile intrusion from the Internet.
Updating Your Operating System
Protect your computer against possible attacks or infections by scheduling the latest patches, updates, and drivers for your software and operating system.
Physical Security for Your Devices
The general recommendations for physical security are the same for all devices, particularly smaller devices like laptops, hard disks, smartphones, music players, and flash drives.