Report suspicious situations to the ICT Service Centre

There’s no such thing as 100% safe. It’s a pity, but it’s also reality. No matter how good you are at following all the security advice, and no matter how careful you are when opening emails and files, there is always a chance that your workstation will fall into the hands of cybercriminals due to an unknown virus, a security vulnerability in the software, or even a moment of carelessness.

Usually, you will notice that something suspicious is going on with your computer. A warning might pop up on your screen, suspicious emails could suddenly be sent in your name, your computer might become very slow, the cursor of your mouse may make strange movements or the light of your camera could turn on. If you notice something like this, take action.

• Disconnect the network cable from the computer and disconnect the Wi-Fi connection.
• Do not turn off your computer. Computer experts can then still secure traces of the criminals.
• If possible, take a picture of your screen with your mobile phone or tablet.
• Try to remember exactly what happened—what you were doing, what actions you took—just before you noticed the strange behaviour.
• Report the incident in as much detail as possible to the ICT Service Centre.

And remember: You may be a victim of criminals; it’s just bad luck and there’s no shame in it.

By disclosing it and taking the right actions, you can help us all to fight those criminals.

Cartoon: Ruben L. Oppenheimer