FAQ

(Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is the Internet Security Site?
A: The Iowa Telecom Security Team is a group of local Iowans and Iowa Telecom employees who are committed to helping our customers stay safe online. They created the site as a resource for all things related to Internet security, including:

• Virus and Scam Alerts – critical information that allows you to recognize a potential security threat BEFORE it becomes a disaster
• Informational and How-To articles – knowledge to help you protect your privacy and keep your computers clean of viruses
• Security Glossary – easy-to-understand definitions of security-related terms
• Security Tips – simple ways for you to protect yourself online while still enjoying the best of the Internet

Q: What’s with the Landscapes photos?
A: The pictures that we have chosen to rotate through the header of this website don’t scream “Hey look at me! I’m secure.” with good reason. Their intended purpose is to bring to mind the main focus of the work we do here. We are not trying to convince you that we know how to solve all of the problems of the Internet, but rather equip you with the tools and knowledge to deal with any issues you may come across. Our hope is that you can be just as comfortable on the information highway as you are traveling the roads of home.

Q: What are the Scam Alerts and how do I use them?
A: The Scam Alerts section of the main page is where we list scams and phishing schemes that we have discovered being targeted at our customers. See our Phishing 101 article for more detailed information on phishing schemes and why it is important for you you to recognize them and properly handle them.

Q: Okay, I was looking at the Scam Alerts and noticed that the one I got in email this morning wasn’t on the list. How do I get you the information so you can update your list?
A: Very good question! We’re counting on your input to help keep our list of scams as accurate as possible. You see the threats that are out there. You are in the best position to tell us what is pertinent to your browsing and emailing experience. So, if you come across a phishing scheme we don’t have listed, go to the Contact Us page and fill out the information for ‘Report a Phishing Scam’. Make sure you include both the headers and the body of the email message associated with the scam. There is a link on the ‘Contact’ page with directions for obtaining both pieces of information from most email clients.

Q: What are the Virus Alerts and how do I use them?
A: The Virus Alerts section of our main page has a listing of the most dangerous viruses that are in the wild as researched by us. Like the Scam Alerts, they are listed in order of newest update first. It is important that you watch all of these, as the danger to you from them is not related to their position in the list can vary greatly with the specific software and operating system installed on your PC or PC’s.

Q: What do I do with this information?
A: All articles contain helpful information, but can be read at your convenience. The most important thing for you to do, should be to check the virus alerts and scam alerts frequently (at least weekly, but the more often the better). Alerts will be updated daily as new information is available. Both virus and scam alerts are listed in chronological order of their last update, so the most up-to-date information will always be posted at the top of the page.

Q: Great info! But I noticed you don’t have anything discussing ‘____________’. Can I make requests?
A: An excellent question! And to answer it: yes you can! Go to the Contact Us page and select the ‘Requests’ option, then fill in your request in the box and submit it to us. We’ll do our best to write up an article answering your request as soon as we can. Make sure you include your email at the top in case we have questions or need your clarification on any aspect of the request.