Check for and remove viruses on your Bowdoin computer

Questions

  • What should I do if I think my Bowdoin computer has a virus?
  • How can I tell if my laptop is infected with malware or another security threat?
  • Does Bowdoin provide antivirus protection for faculty, staff, and students?
  • What’s the difference between CrowdStrike and Windows Defender?
  • Can I run an antivirus scan on my own computer?

Environment

  • Applies to Bowdoin College faculty and staff computers managed through Jamf Pro or Intune.
  • Applies to Bowdoin students using personally owned or College-issued Windows or macOS devices.
  • Faculty and staff use CrowdStrike for antivirus protection.
  • Students rely on Windows Defender or the built-in protection on macOS.

Resolution

  1. If your computer shows signs like slow performance, unexpected pop-ups, or files opening on their own, pause your work and save what you can.
  2. Stay connected to the internet so the antivirus software can update its protection files.
  3. For faculty and staff computers:
    • Open the CrowdStrike Falcon Sensor from the system tray (Windows) or menu bar (macOS).
    • CrowdStrike automatically scans and protects your computer. You do not need to start scans manually.
    • If you see a message in CrowdStrike about a detected threat, follow the on-screen steps to “Quarantine” or “Remove.”
  4. For student computers:
    • In Windows, open Windows Security from the Start menu, then select Virus & threat protection.
    • Click Quick scan to check for common issues, or choose Full scan for a deeper check.
    • Follow any prompts to remove or quarantine detected threats.
    • macOS protects automatically using built-in malware detection; updates from Apple keep this current.
  5. Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Use "Jamf Pro Self Service" (macOS) or "Intune Company Portal" (Windows/macOS) to install available updates.
  6. If you notice repeating warnings or unusual behavior after the scan, restart your computer and run another scan.
  7. Learn more from Microsoft’s guide on how Windows Defender protects your computer.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you can chat with Bowdoin Bot of contact the Bowdoin College Service Desk by phone at (207) 725-3030 or in person at the Tech Hub in Smith Union.

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