Don’t Take the Bait: Beware of Phishing

Is that unexpected part-time job offer real? Does someone you’ve never met really need you to make purchases on his behalf? Now more than ever, it’s essential to protect yourself against phishing attempts and other cybersecurity threats.

On the latest episode of the Behind the Monitor podcast from Information Technology Services (ITS), Chief Information Security Officer Chris Croad provides tips for recognizing phishing attempts and protecting your information. You can check it out on Kaltura, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Soundcloud.

Phishers send emails or messages that claim to be from people, businesses or organizations you know. These messages direct you to a website that looks like a legitimate organization’s site but instead is a fraudulent site designed to trick you into giving out your personal information.

Some tips to keep in mind to help you spot phishing emails:

• Syracuse University will never ask you to reveal any personal information through email or ask you to update your personal information through a link in an email.
• Never click on embedded links from people you don’t know. Always be wary of unsolicited email, even if you think you recognize the sender.
• Phishing emails usually threaten to shut down your account if you don’t respond. Valid emails do not.
• Phishing emails usually will have grammar or spelling mistakes.

If you need further information or assistance with verifying any email messages, please contact the ITS Security Department at ITSecurity@listserv.syr.edu.

Check out these additional tips to keep your data and the Syracuse University community’s data safe and secure. You also can follow ITS on Instagram for tech tips and tricks.