Taking Care of Your Computer

Handle the machine carefully

Your computer is not a toy. Respect the power of the machine! Treat it like an important tool.

Keep it in the sleeve when not in use.

Don't drop it!

Keep food and liquids away from it. FAR away from it.

Keep it away from the edge of the table or desk.

Be careful with the power cord - someone can trip on it and (a) hurt themselves and (b) pull the computer off onto the floor and break it.

Try not to leave the computer in very hot or very cold places.


Protect against fraud, spam, and attacks on your computer

Zombies may not be a problem, but online fraud attempts are! 

Spam - Unwanted messages, often through email. These may be trying to sell you something, get you to send money to fraudulent places, or trying to get you to click on something so they can get your personal information. Don't open these, and definitely do NOT click on any links.

Phishing - Same idea. These often contain a subject line that tries to get you to think your bank account or credit card have been compromised. If you get something that concerns you, don't open it - call your bank or credit card company.

Identity Theft - stealing your login ID, password, bank account number, social security number, student ID number, etc. in order to pretend to be you. Be very careful about sharing information, and guard your password!

Don't go to questionable ("bad") websites - including those where they substitute the letter Z for S, or places for pirated videos or music, etc. They often put viruses and malware on your computer, which can make it run slowly or allow others to take control of it.

If something weird or unexpected comes up on the screen and wants you to click - DON'T. If you just have to know, write down the url and go check it out on another computer.

Use strong passwords. Never use your name or birthday. Use upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and if possible special characters like ! and * in your passwords. If anything suspicious happens, change your passwords.