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Viruses, spam, phishing and IT security

This service provides operational guidance and good practices to improve computer security and stability and to protect email from viruses, spam and phishing.

The main security measure indicated is keeping the operating system and installed applications updated to the latest version. The Scuola has a protocol for remote updating and installation of applications, patches or system upgrades on staff desktop computers through the Autotask software.

The page also describes the antivirus tools made available by the Scuola, the available spam filtering options and the main precautions to recognize and avoid phishing attempts.

For requests or reports concerning IT security, the email address security@sns.it is indicated.

Features

• Provide good practices to improve computer security and stability.
• Indicate the importance of system updates, patches and application upgrades.
• Describe the remote update and installation protocol provided by the Scuola for staff desktop computers.
• Indicate the antivirus tools made available by the Scuola.
• Describe the available tools for reducing spam in email.
• Provide criteria for recognizing phishing emails and reducing the risk of online fraud.

Requirements

• Have a computer used for Scuola-related activities.
• Use email and know the email program or service being used.
• For remote updates, use a staff desktop computer included in the protocol provided by the Scuola.
• For email filtering, be able to configure the email program.

Designed for

Faculty members, Students, Technical and administrative staff

Get started

1. Keep the operating system updated to the latest available version.
2. Keep installed applications updated to the latest available version.
3. Use the antivirus tools indicated by the Scuola.
4. Use the Webmail filtering defined by email administrators for the whole Scuola community.
5. If necessary, configure the email program to filter unwanted messages.
6. Set the email program so that messages considered spam are moved directly to the “Junk” or “Spam” folder.
7. Carefully check the subject of emails and be cautious with messages using unprofessional wording or characters.
8. Check the sender’s email address before considering a message reliable.
9. Pay attention to grammar mistakes or incorrect words in the body of the email.
10. Be cautious with emails requesting personal information, credentials or access codes.
11. Before opening a link, check that the destination address matches the one shown in the email text.
12. Do not open attachments unless the origin of the email is certain.
13. For requests or reports concerning IT security, write to security@sns.it.