Have you got a question about this topic? Please write in. It may also be useful on this FAQ.

You probably already know that there is are risks in using a computer but you may not know all of them or what you can do to protect yourself. Also visit this page by SafeCanada for extensive information on these topics.

• Fake Folks - People pretending to be someone or something that they aren't through email, chat, facebook, and so on. More on Phishing
  What can you do? - Seek verification or refuse to deal with that person.
  
• Fake Sites - Web sites pretending to be something that they aren't. More on Phishing
  What can you do? - The fake sites are often connected by misleading links. It is possible for people to display one link while sending you to another. If you want to be sure you are going to the real site, search it through Google or type it in yourself. (ie "www.microsoft.com")
• Spyware - Computer programs that get installed on your computer unknowingly and cause problems. More...
  What can you do? - Be cautious which software you install. Research it. Get a spyware protection program like Adaware or Spybot. Then keep it up-to-date and run a scan regularly.
• Spam - Junk mail More...
  What can you do? - Don't give your email address to web sites. Use a filter system like Algonquin's Canit.
• Virus - Computer programs that are destructive or at least annoying. More...
  What can you do? - Do all of your operating system and program updates regularly. Don't click on everything you are sent. Make sure you have a decent virus protection program like AVG. Algonquin has disabled emailing of zipped files and also scans all servers in an attempt to keep things under control.
• Loss of Data - Files disappear and become corrupted and it can cost you some marks or your job - very costly.
  What can you do? - Protect yourself by backing up.
  
  
  • Copy your N drive to your hard drives at home. In the labs never save to C drive since it is usually cleaned with every reboot.
  • Duplicate your disks. Or perhaps even stop using disksand store all data to the N drive.
  • Use USB keys
  • Email the file to yourself

  

  • Burn a cd
  • The Publishing Center will do backups to a cd for staff and students too.
  • Make a hard copy
• Harassment - Even on the Web there are nasty people.
  What can you do? - If anyone is doing something you are uncomfortable with you should contact the Algonquin Security or the local police...and don't respond to them at all. Don't delete the emails, They can be used to track the offender.
  • Email Security - More...
  • Cyberstalking - More...
• Theft - It could be as simple as someone taking something of yours while you walk over to the printer in a lab or office.
  What can you do? - Watch yourself. If you have a concern you should contact the Algonquin Security or the local police.
• Account usage - People can harm you if they gain access to your account.
  What can you do? - Log off when you are done or someone may use your account and printing paper. For the same reasons, never give anyone your username and password. Change your password regularly.

What Does Algonquin do to Protect You?

We provide layers of protection between you and the possible threats. See the diagram for more details. Remember though that part of the responsibility is yours.

   (Click on the graphic to enlarge )