*Notice of Ransomware Infections at York*

Please be advised that several infections of a type of 
ransomware/malware known as “Odin” have been detected on York 
workstations today. Ransomware infects computers like a virus and then 
encrypts all files on the local PC and any network shares it finds, 
making the information inaccessible, offering a decryption key for a ransom.

The main method of infection is via email attachments containing the 
code that installs the virus, which is then run when the user clicks on 
the attachment.

*How to protect against ransomware*

York has deployed technology and systems to help filter malware and 
related cyber-attacks, including removal/renaming of dangerous 
attachment types, however protecting against ransomware requires 
vigilance from the University community also.

*Important ways you can help including the following:*
-    Do NOT click links or open attachments in unsolicited email from 
people or groups you don’t recognize
-    Keep your anti-virus software up to date and enabled; York provides 
Trend Micro AV to all staff, faculty and students at the University
-    Keep your computer up to date, including key software such as your 
web browser, Adobe Reader, Adobe Flash, Microsoft Silverlight or Java
-    Use York network shared drives, or similar that also has regular 
backups, to store important information, and ensure such information is 
NOT stored only on your local computer
-    If you or your department maintain servers, ensure they are up to 
date from an operating system AND application layer perspective

If you suspect your computer is infected or being attacked, shut 
down/power off your computer immediately (to stop encryption of files) 
and contact your local IT support or the UIT Service Desk.

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Please direct any questions or concerns to UIT Client Services
email: [log in to unmask] or visit http://ithelp.yorku.ca

UIT Announce