Keep these tips for recognizing email and text scams before and after the break
The Office of Information Security reminds you to be aware of phishing emails and unsolicited text messages sent before, during and after the holiday break. Keep these resources for help with identifying and reporting suspicious emails and text messages.
Phishing red flags:
- Request for username and passwords-especially for NetIDs. No one at TU will EVER ask for your password.
- Fraudulent job postings or announcements. Be extra cautious of job announcements coming from a sender’s personal email address.
- References to the IT department or IT service. The technology office at TU never refers to itself in writing as “IT” – always look for The Office of Technology Services (OTS) in communications.
- Strange or unfamiliar request by another TU employee. This could include a message like “available?” or a request to make a purchase. A phone call to the TU employee will clear up any suspicions.
- Vague subject lines. OTS will provide descriptive subject text, and when possible, include a phishing disclaimer at the end of the email.
- Obvious spelling mistakes and poor grammar. Emails sent from TU departments and offices are almost always reviewed and spell-checked prior to distribution.
- Attachments that are “.exe” files. Opening these can launch and spread malicious software.
- Unknown sender, or an email from an unsolicited source. If it isn’t from an @towson.edu address, be sure you are familiar with sender.
You’ve received a suspicious email in your TU account or text message on your personal cell phone. Now what?
- Do not reply to the email or text. Don’t click on any links, or open any attached files.
- Report the email. On mobile devices, or for students using TU’s gmail: forward it to phishing@towson.edu. Faculty and staff using Outlook on a desktop/laptop: click the “report phish” button at the top of the email.
- Forward the text message to 7726 (SPAM) and follow the instructions.
- Delete the email or text message. To help prevent, consider registering your phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry.
If you’re concerned your TU account information or TU device might’ve been compromised:
- Contact the OTS Faculty/Staff Help Center at 410-704-5151 or submit a TechHelp service request.
- For more information on recognizing suspicious emails and for real life examples, visit towson.edu/phishing
Categorised in: General
This post was written by Weldon, Jennifer