IT Security Alert: Computer Worm, Take Preventive Measures

Multiple people on the UH campus are reporting computer issues that may indicate their computers are infected with the W32/Conficker worm. These infected computers are causing CougarNet login failures.

All customers should immediately take the following steps:

Preventative steps against W32/Conficker.worm

  1. Verify that your McAfee VirusScan definition files are up to date. Specifically, you should be running DAT file DAT 5493 (released 01/12/2009) or later. If you are unsure of how to do this contact your local technology support provider or the IT Support Center at 713-743-1411.

    If you do not have a current copy of McAfee installed on your computer, you can download it from www.uh.edu/software or seek assistance from local support or the IT Support Center.
  2. After the VirusScan DAT update is completed, perform an On Demand Scan.

If the scan completes succesfully, you should not need to do anything else. If it does not complete successfully or if you cannot update your system, your system may be infected with this worm.


If your VirusScan cannot update, your computer may be infected with this worm. This worm blocks your computer's access to operating system updates and security-related web sites.

If you think your system is infected, disconnect the system from the network immediately and contact your local technology support provider or the IT Support Center at 713-743-1411.


As more information becomes available, it will be posted on this page:


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