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Antivirus

Tips to keep your computer virus-free.

Stay Protected Online: Antivirus & Cyber Hygiene

In today's connected world, our devices are vital tools for learning, research, collaboration, shopping, banking, and more. However, with the convenience of the internet comes increasing cybersecurity risks. Viruses, malware, spyware, and phishing attacks can compromise both personal and university data. At SCU, it is critical to practice good cyber hygiene, particularly through the use of antivirus tools, to safeguard yourself and SCU's digital environment.

Here are essential antivirus-specific tips and updated resources to help you keep your devices and information safe:

1. Install Antivirus Software (Provided Free by SCU)

All current SCU faculty, staff, and students have access to SentinelOne Endpoint Protection antivirus software free of charge.

  • Why it helps: Antivirus software detects, blocks, and removes viruses, spyware, and other malicious software before they can cause damage.

  • How to do it: Download and install SentinelOne Antivirus from the SCU IT SentinelOne Page.

2. Keep Antivirus Software Updated

Ensure your antivirus software is set to automatically update its virus definitions and security patches daily.

  • Why it helps: Regular updates allow antivirus software to recognize and block the latest threats and malware variants.

  • How to do it: In SentinelOne settings, enable automatic updates. Check periodically to confirm updates are running smoothly.

3. Use a Firewall Alongside Antivirus

While antivirus software monitors for malware, a firewall adds another layer by controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic.

  • Why it helps: Firewalls work in tandem with antivirus software to block unauthorized access and prevent malware from communicating with external servers.

  • How to do it: Activate your firewall in your device's system preferences or control panel, and ensure SentinelOne's network protections are enabled.

4. Install Operating System and Software Updates Promptly

Keep not only your antivirus software but also your device's operating system and other applications updated.

  • Why it helps: Antivirus protection is only effective if your system's vulnerabilities are patched, preventing malware from exploiting outdated software.

  • How to do it: Enable automatic updates on your device and check regularly for updates.

5. Run Regular Antivirus Scans

Even with real-time protection, schedule full system scans at least once a week.

  • Why it helps: Full scans ensure that dormant or missed threats are detected and removed.

  • How to do it: Set up scheduled scans within your SentinelOne Antivirus settings.

6. Be Wary of Emails and Attachments (Antivirus Alerts Included)

Phishing emails often carry malware that antivirus software may catch, but it’s best to avoid downloading them in the first place.

  • Why it helps: Avoiding suspicious emails reduces the likelihood of triggering antivirus alerts for malware-laden files.

  • How to do it: Never open attachments or click links from unknown or unverified senders. Use SCU’s PhishAlarm button to report suspicious emails.

7. Utilize Spam Filters to Complement Antivirus Protection

Spam filters help block unwanted emails that could carry malware before they even reach your inbox.

  • Why it helps: Prevents exposure to malicious content that antivirus software would have to scan post-delivery.

  • How to do it: Enable spam filtering in your SCU email settings and report unwanted emails.

8. Avoid Peer-to-Peer (P2P) File Sharing to Reduce Malware Exposure

P2P platforms often distribute malware, which can bypass antivirus software if files are disguised.

  • Why it helps: Minimizes the chances of downloading malicious files that antivirus software may have difficulty identifying.

  • How to do it: Stick to legitimate sources for software, media, and file downloads.

9. Secure Your Browser Settings to Aid Antivirus Software

Proper browser settings limit the chance of inadvertently downloading malware.

  • Why it helps: Reduces the amount of suspicious downloads that antivirus software needs to scan and block.

  • How to do it: Disable auto-fill, third-party cookies, and JavaScript on untrusted sites.

10. Don’t Fall for Virus Hoaxes or Fake Antivirus Alerts

Cybercriminals may display fake antivirus alerts to trick you into downloading malware.

  • Why it helps: Avoiding fake alerts prevents unnecessary downloads and maintains trust in SCU’s authorized SentinelOne Antivirus.

  • How to do it: Trust only official sources like SCU IT, SentinelOne, or reputable security providers. Ignore pop-ups urging you to install unverified antivirus products.

While the internet offers countless opportunities, it’s vital to be cautious, aware, and proactive, especially regarding antivirus tools. By practicing these security measures, SCU faculty, staff, and students can protect themselves and contribute to a safer digital environment for our university community.

Mar 17, 2025