On Monday, May 15, Information Technology Services (ITS) scanned the K-State network for the Microsoft patch for the MS17-010 SMB vulnerability dated March 14, 2017. More than 560 Windows systems did not have the patch, which made them vulnerable to the WannaCry Ransomware. This malware, and its variants, infect systems, encrypt all files, and then require a ransom to “unlock” the files.
ITS and campus system administrators immediately began applying the patch. Within a week, the number of vulnerable systems was reduced to about 80, which were blocked from the K-State network until the patch was applied.
The focus now is on reducing/eliminating unpatched University-owned systems and unpatched systems using the VPN to tunnel into campus. This will minimize the negative impact if a system is brought onto campus, becomes infected, and spreads the malware. ITS will continue to scan the network and block machines.
If you need assistance contact your technical support staff or the IT Help Desk 785-532-7722.
