Safe Computing

Safe Computing Is Everyone’s Responsibility

Malware and Malicious Email

Computers with up-to-date security patches and good anti-malware may be compromised by clicking on a "bad link" in an email message or by opening a "bad attachment".  Don’t click on a link unless you know it goes to a mainstream website.  Use browser bookmarks/favorites whenever possible instead of links in email messages.  Don’t blindly click on advertisements or search results; they are not necessarily screened.  It is simple to obscure the true destination of a link in an email message or on a web page.  Malware writers and email spammers know how to use personal information and emotions against you.  Phishing emails mimic those from banks and other companies.  They often have alarming subject lines, causing recipients to click.  They constantly refine their ploys as they see what works.  Don’t succumb to scare tactics or enticements.

The Department of Homeland Security’s Stop.Think.Connect campaign is good advice.  Also see Email Scams and Securing Your Web Browser.

Check Email Addresses

Messages from a trusted source may be compromised.  Get in the habit of pausing.  Hover over a link to see where it goes (including the ones above).  On a smartphone, pause your finger on a link to see its true destination.  Only the rightmost part of a domain is significant (e.g., “http://microsoft.com.yyy.zzz/index.html” does not go to Microsoft, it goes to yyy.zzz). When you first receive a message, it is good practice to see where the message came from by looking at the email address. 

Email Attachments

Be careful opening attachments.  Ask yourself some questions: 

  • Was the email message really written by the apparent sender? 
  • Was it written to me? 
  • If the message contains my name or other personal information, could it be from a spammer’s dossier on me? 
  • What is the original source of the attachment? 
  • Is it worth the risk? 

Online Safety Tips

Public Wi-Fi Networks
Wi-Fi hotspots - like the ones in coffee shops, airports, and hotels - are convenient, but they often aren't secure. Use these tips to help protect your personal information. Learn more at OnGuardOnline.gov.

Share with Care
What you post online could have an impact on people in the real world.

Protect Your Computer from Malware
Malware is short for "malicious software." It includes viruses and spyware that get installed on your computer or mobile device without your consent. These programs can cause your device to crash and can be used to monitor and control your online activity. Learn more about how to avoid, detect, and get rid of malware.