Over the years a number of computer support people in the various units at UM have requested that I either quit sending out messages or include a disclaimer. They feel that my messages about things like viruses, worms, software, and computer configuration do more harm than good. They think that some users become overly concerned about problems that are not relevant. Their users may do things such as install software or try to remove worms or viruses. These activities may have unintended side-effects. Then the support people are called in to clean up the situation.
DISCLAIMER: If you have someone in your unit who is responsible for providing you with computer support, don't do ANYTHING to your computer without checking with that person first. Anytime you install software or make modifications to your computer there can be unintended side-effects. Better to have them deal with it from the start. Their job is to meet and exceed your needs. Help them do it by letting them know what your needs are. If you don't know who your unit support person is, you should find out and tape the name, e-mail address and phone number on your computer monitor. They are there to help.
