Ransomware is a type of malware used for hijacking data in which the attacker encrypts data making it inaccessible and demands payment for the decryption key.  It installs covertly on a computer, typically carried out using a Trojan (a type of virus) disguised as a legitimate file, which is spread through email attachments, infected programs and compromised websites. …
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The December holiday period, when online retail activity peaks, is a particularly rewarding time of year for cyber criminals. You can help protect yourself – and the University – by being alert to the dangers and thinking carefully before you respond to anything if you’re not absolutely sure of the provenance.  Some attempts are easy …
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By Steve Flowers, Management Services IT security (also known as cyber security) is the protection of information systems from theft or damage to hardware, software, the information on the systems and from disruption or misdirection of the services they provide. It includes controlling physical access to the hardware and protecting against harm that may come …
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JISC has now notified us that the faults have been repaired and tested so our internet connection should be back to normal.  Thank you for bearing with this.

from Dave Thornley, IS&T This is an update and explanation for the internet connection issues which have affected staff and students over the last few days. SHU’s internet connection (provided by JISC and known as JANET) is shared between Universities and Colleges across the UK.  At the weekend, one circuit connecting Sheffield to JANET was …
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