Apple computers are growing rapidly in popularity. Simultaneously, the overall Internet security environment has become less friendly. Cyber-attacks have, for years, been more about social engineering, than a direct attack on your computer. Non-internet scams have always been with us, but these days we also face a, daily onslaught of Internet-based scams. The technical security of your computer isn’t the most important factor—but your Mac is still the target.
For UBC, a major source of viruses is from our Department members own home computers. The viruses arrive, in Psychiatry, on USB Flash Drives. The other big category is e-mails that link to malware infected web sites.
I would like to remind you of the importance of regular (at least monthly) Security updates to your personal/home computers. The big four, to keep up to date are;
1) Web browsers (Firefox, Safari, Chrome etc.)
2) Java (best to uninstall, unless you actually need it for something)
3) Adobe Flash Player and Adobe Acrobat/Reader
4) Your operating system (Windows 7, OS X etc.)
Whether you use a Mac or PC, you can get a free copy of Sophos Antivirus.
PC > http://it.ubc.ca/services/security/sophos-anti-virus
Mac > http://www.sophos.com/en-us/products/free-tools/sophos-antivirus-for-mac-home-edition.aspx
Colin Bryant
Computer System Coordinator
UBC, Dept. of Psychiatry
604-822-7374
colin.bryant@ubc.ca