Computer+Viruses+and+Spyware

=Computer Viruses= toc
 * **Viruses** - A virus is a piece of software that attaches on real programs. Every time the program runs the virus runs too.
 * **E-** **mail Viruses** - An e-mail virus travels as an attachment to the victim's e-mail address book.
 *  **Horses** - A Trojan horse is simply a computer program. The program claims to do one thing, instead it does damage when you run it.
 * **Worms** - A worm is a small piece of software that uses computer networks and security holes to replicate itself.

=Spyware=
 * **Spyware** - Programs that use your Internet connection to send information from your personal computer to some other computer, usually without your knowledge or permission. Most often this information is a record of your ongoing browsing habits, downloads, or it could be more personal data like your name and address
 * **Adware** - Software designed to serve advertising can also be considered Spyware because it includes components for tracking user information.

= Precautions=
 * Install an anti-virus program.
 * Run scans at least weekly.
 * Do not install applications from sites you don't trust.
 * Users are expected to use discretion when using, installing or downloading any outside software on the district’s network workstations unless expressly authorized in advance by the district technology coordinator and screened for viruses.
 * Be careful opening e-mail attachments.
 * The user is responsible for his/her individual account(s) and personal storage on the network server and to take all reasonable precautions to prevent others from being able to use their account.
 *  District employees must immediately notify the building administrator of any known or suspected security problems. The building administrator will then contact the technology coordinator as needed to determine a course of action.

Ethical Issues Handbook Additional Resources and References