Malware is any software designed to cause damage to a computer or network of computers. Most users will be familiar with terms like computer virus, worm and trojan horse.Spyware is a any software designed to collect and send information about the user’s computing activities. It falls into the malware category when it does not explicitly inform the user of its activities.

Adware is any software designed to deliver advertising material to the user. While not not necessarily malicious, adware is considered to be a nuisance by many users. Some adware can also be spyware.

There are numerous software packages available to detect and remove unwanted software. The College uses Symantec AntiVirus on all College-owned machines. Faculty, staff and public lab machines are updated with current antivirus lists automatically.Students who connect their personal machines to the Dickinson network are required to first have functional, up-to-date antivirus software installed. See the Virus Policy for more information.

Faculty and staff who believe that they may have some form of malware, spyware or adware on their computers should contact the Helpdesk (ext. 1000) for assistance.Students who believe that they may have malware, spyware or adware on their personal computer should contact the ResNet Services Annex for an appointment.