Computer virus backs up support desk

Students visiting the Rowan technology Network and System Services will see piles of computers and busy student workers and will ultimately experience a delay in service.

NSS  is experiencing backups as more and more students get viruses on their computers.

A virus, disguised as an anti-virus software download, has been embedding itself into files on student and faculty computers, in some cases damaging hardware.

Marc Fleischner, Coordinator of Computer Installation and Repairs, said this is the largest amount of students he has seen at the desk in seven years.

Fleischner said the virus can show itself after downloading music on programs such as Limewire.

“These programs open up a lot of security holes and let a lot of stuff through, that could be embedded in files like MP3 files,” Fleischner said. “You get what you pay for. So, when it’s free, you have to ask yourself why it’s free.”

Last fall semester, NSS fixed 1,087 computers. This semester, the desk has already fixed 1,191, and they expect more after Thanksgiving.

Students that do need to visit NSS and admit their computers will experience a delay.

“We have student workers, and I emphasize student. School work comes first,” Fleischner said. “In a budget crunch, I insist we keep this service free for students. But, because it’s free, students might not get their computers back in the expected time.”

Because of the influx, the desk will close next week and catch up on repairing student laptops. NSS is also closed on Wednesdays, which according to Fleischner, has helped the student workers keep up to speed with the load.

To prevent this virus, NSS recommends installing Trend Micro Anti-Virus software, which is free through the university. Make sure the software is always updated and use it to run a weekly virus scan on your computer.

If a student or faculty member sees the fake spy ware pop-up while browsing the web or downloading files, do not press “okay” or “cancel.” Instead, click the “x” at the top right of the box and then run a virus scan using a reputable program.

NSS is working on creating a “how to” pamphlet, detailing for students how to try and deal with viruses on their own.

NSS is open every weekday but Wednesday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is located in Memorial Hall.

To contact NSS, e-mail nss@rowan.edu.