Phishing remains one of the most effective methods hackers use to attack. Why? Because it works. Hackers are increasingly using Generative AI to create more convincing and evasive phishing messages. While UNCG utilizes Microsoft to filter out many malicious emails, these attacks can also come through texts, phone calls, and even QR codes. Ultimately, you are the final line of defense.
Be on the lookout for these common phishing schemes:
- Offers that seem too good to be true or demand immediate action.
- Job opportunities that require significant personal information or a fee to apply.
- Emails that start with vague or generic greetings.
- Messages with urgent, alarming, or threatening language, or those that include ultimatums.
- Suspicious links or attachments that lure you into clicking.
Tips to stay safe:
- Check the sender’s email address: Does it seem off? For example, is the sender using an AOL address but claims to be your bank? Always validate the sender’s email before taking any action.
- Watch for emotional triggers: Phishing emails often prey on your emotions to lower your guard. Be skeptical of any email that elicits an emotional response.
- Trust your instincts: If an email or text message seems unusual, even if it appears to come from someone you know, give that person a call to verify.
- Guard your credentials: The ITS Service Desk (6-TECH) will never ask for your password or multi-factor authentication (MFA) code. Do not respond to requests for this information.
- Question unusual requests: Be wary if you are asked to:
- Use an unknown website,
- Share files via an unfamiliar service,
- Pay using an unfamiliar method, or
- Redirect communications to a suspicious or unofficial email address or text number.
Remember, you are the last line of defense.
Need help with an information security issue?
Submit a 6-TECH ticket, call 6-TECH at (336) 256-TECH (8324), or email [email protected].
