IT Security Notice: Ransomware threat

June 28, 2017

*******  IT Security Notice  *******

Several trusted news outlets are reporting a global Ransomware outbreak known as “Petya”.  The Ransomware enters networks through malicious emails (Phishing), or by being downloaded from infected websites.

McMaster’s network has not, as of now, been infected.

The impact of this attack has mostly been felt in countries overseas, but in an abundance of caution the IT Security and Enterprise Network teams are taking action to prevent the spread of this attack on the McMaster network.

What can you do to help?

As always, it is very important that you remain vigilant about IT Security Hygiene on your computer:

  • Make sure that all of your software is up to date, especially your Microsoft operating system
  • Make sure that your antivirus client is up to date and running
  • Enable web browsing protections available in your antivirus client, or through browser security extensions
  • Be wary of malicious websites and emails
  • Do not open attachments that you were not expecting

 

Contact McMaster IT Security for more information about this and other internet threats, and how we are working to keep you safe:

email: c-it-security@mcmaster.ca
Web: http://itsecurity.mcmaster.ca/
Twitter: @McMaster_ITSec (https://twitter.com/McMaster_ITSec)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mcmaster.itsec
Telephone: x28299

University Technology Services thanks you for your cooperation and understanding.

If you have any questions or concerns, or experience any problems later, please contact the UTS Service Desk at uts@mcmaster.ca or ext. 2-HELP (24357).

Please be aware that there is no option to withdraw your consent to receive these messages.