Security Policy Announced for Computers on University Network

Due to virus outbreaks that  affect computers the world-over, as well as on campus, IT Services developed a new policy regarding computers infected with computer viruses or worms.

Beginning September 15, 2003, any computer on the University of Arkansas campus that is detected as being infected by a computer virus or worm MAY BE IMMEDIATELY disconnected from the network, or blocked from having network access. Computers will remain disconnected until they are certified virus-free/cleaned of the infection.

Security and networking staff of IT Services will notify the campus tech partner supporting infected computers or the owner of the computer(s) if he or she can be identified. They will be informed of the disconnection and assisted with disinfection procedures.

IT Services reminds users that good computing practices require computer operating systems and software be regularly updated with patches and fixes from the vendor and that antivirus software be installed on the computer.

IT Services, in conjunction with the Student Technology Fee, provides FREE copies of Symantec AntiVirus (previously known as Norton AntiVirus) for all faculty, staff, and students. The software is available for download at Symantec AntiVirus Software.

For questions or concerns, please contact the IT Services Help Desk at 575-2905.

Date Posted: 09/11/2003