Full Notification

Virus and Malware attacks are a daily threat that all computer users needs to be aware of at all times.  The precautions taken need to be the same as locking one’s car or home.  Even if locked, burglars can still get in but an open door is just an invitation.  Here are some common protective steps you can take:

• Never open an email attachment without the following steps:
  • Verify not only sender name but the sender email address.  Gmail, Hotmail, yahoo, etc. are often signs of fake email.
  • Verify you are expecting a file.  No government agency or legitimate vendor will send you anything to open without notifying you first.  A simple confirmation call can save more than you know.
  • Email attacks will often appear coming from top management, city council, vendor databases, and government agencies.  The goal is to make the email look so important you forget to question it
  • Never click links if you do not know the source
  • Never send personal or city information to an unverified source
• Do not use thumb drives of unknown origin, they can execute thing without your knowledge
• Avoid clicking ads and offers while on the internet
• Be very cautious if you go to an internet site you do not know
• Unless for a specific verified purpose do not click acceptance requests, products offers, or notifications you just won the lottery
• Understand file names can be altered to appear non-threatening.  A word or pdf file can have a virus built in to the file, verify the origins of all files

 
Whenever on the internet for personal or work use you are under constant threat of attack.  The threats are disguised as things you often do, these threats will not always be obvious.  If anything suspicious happens or even if you suspect something may have happened contact the Police Department at 626-300-0720 for assistance.