Warning: Be careful with “free” software you find on the internet!
The University of Twente advises against installing unapproved software onto University devices. While a lot of the downloadable software is benign, the makers must get some sort of income. This might be in the form of irritating ads that pop up while using the software. It can also be much more dangerous.
- Cyber Security risks: software can be used to transport malware, viruses, and spyware to your computer without you noticing, or it may let hackers into our network.
- Privacy concerns: you don’t know where your data is, or who has access. You may be responsible for an inadvertent data leak or tricked into sharing something you shouldn’t.
- Unauthorised = unsupported: if you are relying on a freebie, there is a danger that it will break, disappear, or corrupt your computer.
This kind of software can seem to provide the services you downloaded it for. But next to that, often in the background, it can give other users access to your computer, install other applications and even malware. When giving access to other users, you are going to be the one to blame when their actions are illegal or interfere with our network. Downloading other software sometimes means you end up with an Infostealer or ransomware.
If you are looking for an application for a certain goal, contact the Service Desk ICT.
