Windows - Safe vs Risky Browsing
updated: 09 August 2004
responsible author: Mister 3D
WARNING - where and how you browse the internet can impact the reliability and security of your computer!
Evergreen supports two Internet browsers: Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE) and Netscape. The Evergreen web site is geared towards IE, as are many others. In fact, some sites require IE for their authentication (login) or online applications to work. However, a number of vulnerabilities have been recently discovered in IE, and greatly increase the chance that your computer might be compromised. If you inadvertently encounter a malicious web site, the results can impact the security and reliability of your computer
Listed below are some steps you should take to help insure that you are not the victim of an exploit.
1. Select the sites you browse carefully.
Avoid browsing sites that are "off-the-beaten-path" if at all possible and limit web browsing to business related needs only. If you must browse obscure web sites, try using Netscape (it is also installed on all college PCs) rather than IE.
2. Avoid clicking "Yes" or "No" on an unexpected advertisement or "pop-up" screen.
 When a dialog box appears (asking you to check something or make a decision) and you don't want what they are offering (remember that NO sometimes means YES), use the "close window" button in the upper right hand corner of the box. This will bypass all the code in the dialog box and just get the box out of your face.
3. Do not download software onto your computer unless it is absolutely necessary and business related.
Anything you download is a potential virus, malware (malicious software) or spyware vector. If you must download, please choose reputable sources, and ONLY download CRITICAL software. Beware anything that is "FREE." Nothing is free. Toolbars, "skins," cute animations, Powerpoint presentations on amusing topics are often rife with malicious software. Beware! Even if you know who is sending the URL to you, they likely didn't originate the material, and email addresses can be spoofed. It's a tough world out there, and some folks have nothing better to do than try to destroy as many computers/data as possible.
4. Avoid the use of Instant Messaging software
If you need Instant Messaging for a business related reason, please contact TSS at extension 6627.
5. Avoid the use of Chat Rooms
Other than Web Crossing, chat room are not employed by TESC. Do not use them.
6. Avoid giving out personal information on a web site unless absolutely necessary.
And do not say YES to saving your password or personal information on a web site.
More Information about Spyware:
Spyware is on the rise. Spyware is a small application, usually loaded on your machine without your knowledge, and runs deep in the background. Its purpose it to siphon marketing information from your machine, and send it...somewhere. It can also be used to extract passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal/financial information. It is difficult to detect without specialized tools (available to TSS and Network Services).
In addition to the obvious security concerns raised by Spyware, we have also seen a drastic increase in the number of computer malfunctions on campus that can be directly traced to Spyware on computers.
If you are concerned that your computer maybe affected by Spyware, contact the TSS Help Desk at ext. 6627 (or email support@evergreen.edu).
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