If you suspect that your computer has been compromised
If your computer begins to exhibit:
- A sudden reduction in the computers' performance.
- Unusual behaviors, such as windows briefly popping up and closing down.
- Application programs terminating and restarting again.
- Sporadic failed logins, even though you are certain you entered the password accurately.
Your computer may have had malicious software installed by a hacker that can capture sensitive information (including passwords), alter data or disrupt your service. In many cases, the behaviors may be simply software or key entry errors, but erring on the side of caution is always advised.
To determine if a data breach has occurred and to respond appropriately, the University has developed a comprehensive data breach response plan that describes the responsibilities of all of the individuals and departments affected by the potential breach. Click here to download a copy of the plan.
If any such suspicious activity is detected, it is important to determine whether or not malicious activity has occurred as soon as possible to prevent the loss or exposure of data, so you should take the following steps:
- If you know your department's IT support person, please contact him or her to check you system. They will involve the necessary parties in case further follow-up is needed.
- If you do not know your support person, please call the OIT Help Desk at 258-HELP, and they will ensure that the appropriate individuals are involved.
