Help Desk, Network Security, How to Remove Wi-Fi Blocks

This article provides guidance for resolving network security blocks resulting from detected spam activity on the campus network.

Understanding the Issue

Security blocks on the IllinoisNet wireless network are typically implemented when a device is detected sending spam emails or exhibiting other suspicious network activity. This can be caused by:

  1. Malicious software (malware).
  2. Free VPNs and region-block bypass software.
  3. Internet sharing services.
  4. Questionable or suspicious software.
  5. MacOS-specific spam malware.

When detected, the Office of Privacy and Information Security automatically blocks access to IllinoisNet until the issue is resolved.

Required Actions

  1. Identify and remove the problematic software.
  2. Run a complete antivirus scan.
  3. Contact the Help Desk with your blocked MAC address.
  4. Agree not to reinstall any problematic applications.

Common Problematic Software

Free VPNs and sharing services that often trigger security blocks include:

  • Hola VPN.
  • Urban VPN.
  • Honeygain network sharing.
  • EagleGet.
  • Other free VPN services.
  • Proxy bypass programs.

These applications typically:

  • Route other users' internet traffic through your device.
  • Send spam messages without your knowledge.
  • Lack proper encryption, exposing personal information.
  • Result in university networks being flagged as spam sources.

Removal Instructions

Restoring Access

  1. Remove all problematic software.
  2. Run a complete antivirus scan.
  3. Take a screenshot of the results.
  4. Contact Technology Services Help Desk:
  5. Provide your MAC address from the security notification email and the screenshot from step 3.
  6. Follow any additional instructions from the Help Desk.

Note: If the issue recurs, you may be required to reimage your device to ensure complete removal of malicious software.

For Windows Users

  1. Run a complete scan with antivirus software.
  2. Remove problematic applications:
    • Open Windows Settings or Control Panel.
    • Navigate to Apps & Features.
    • Locate and uninstall any free VPNs or suspicious software.
    • Check for unfamiliar programs and remove them.
  3. Restart your computer.
  4. Contact the Help Desk with your blocked MAC address.

For Mac Users

  1. Check for suspicious applications:
    • Press Command+Option+Escape.
    • Look for unfamiliar applications in the list.
    • Select and Force Quit if found.
  2. Remove problematic applications:
    • Locate the application in Finder or Applications folder.
    • Drag it to the Trash.
    • Empty the Trash.
  3. For MacOS spam malware:
  4. Restart your computer.
  5. Contact the Help Desk with your blocked MAC address.

Common Questions

"I've Never Installed Any VPN Software"

The block may be triggered by:

  • Applications installed by another user of your device.
  • Software bundled with other applications you downloaded.
  • Malware that installed without your knowledge.
  • Other applications that use similar technology.

Why Was I Blocked?

Malware poses a threat to:

  • Your personal device and information.
  • Other users on the campus network.
  • The university's network reputation.

For these reasons, Security blocks mobile access until the device is verified as malware-free.


Keywords:
vpn block wireless malware malicious hola free proxy p2p 3rd third 
Doc ID:
94756
Owned by:
Help Desk Technology Services G. in University of Illinois Technology Services
Created:
2019-10-01
Updated:
2025-03-19
Sites:
University of Illinois Technology Services