By Jaylene Guevara
On Friday, May 12, a cyber-attack known as WannaCry came into effect and is infecting Windows computers all over the world.
The ransomware targeted outdated Windows programs.
Considering many of the students, staff and faculty here at Cal Poly Pomona use Windows, it is making the CPP Information Technology Service Desk a little worried.
On May 16, the CPP IT Service Desk sent out an email to the students, staff and faculty explaining the do’s and the don’ts when it comes to a cyber-attacks.
CPP’s IT Division advised everyone on campus to avoid any messages that are unrecognizable.
For instance, phishing is intended to use one’s sensitive/private information for the hacker’s malicious intent.
It is easy to fall for phishing attempts, especially on personal computers, because users seem to think that if it is a personal computer, it is safe.
However, that is certainly not the case.
There are so many people that are susceptible to phishing attempts from malicious emails that may seem authentic.
Hackers manage to craft messages that may look legitimate and their intent is to obtain victims’ personal information through an email.
The fact that hackers can gain such information through a measly email is extremely alarming.
Therefore, it is important for students, staff and faculty on campus to be aware of such attempts.
The fact that WannaCry has infected computers nationally and internationally shows that it can happen to anyone.
Often times, we think, “Oh, it won’t happen to me.”
Next thing you know, the cyberattack infects thousands of users’ devices.
As a result, not updating software has a lot to do with those who are susceptible to cyberattacks, especially this one in particular.
Believe it or not, many people do not routinely update their computers as they should.
Cyber-attacks are preventable, though, and that is something that many computer users fail to realize.
It is important to take action for those who own Microsoft Windows devices to ensure protection.
In order for one to take action, he or she needs to install the latest Windows Patches.
For those who believe their computer is infected, he or she needs to locate computer services for personally-owned computers.
As for CPP-owned computers, students, staff and faculty can contact the IT Service Desk on campus.
Robert Diep / The Poly Post
WannaCry ransomware
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