Phishing is a form of fraud that attempts to use email or malicious websites to acquire sensitive information such as account credentials, bank account information, and Social Security numbers. Phishing messages can be sent through emails, websites, text messages or even through social media. These messages are often designed to appear like legitimate communications from banks, government agencies, online services providers or other organizations.
If you have received a phishing email, delete the email.
Be aware of the common signs:
Attachments
Phishing emails sometimes contain attachments that are actually malware. Never click on an attachment from an unknow source.
Links
Hover over links to see if the web address is legitimate and relates to the email's content. If the URL looks suspicious, do not take any action and delete the email.
Sender Address
Check the sender’s name and email address carefully.
Spelling
Phishing emails often have poor grammar, sentence structure, spelling errors and formatting issues. Reputable organizations generally send professional communications.
Urgency
Emails threatening a negative consequence, or a loss of opportunity unless urgent action is taken, are often phishing emails.
If you have any doubt at all, contact the Athens State University Help Desk:
(Email) helpdesk@athens.edu
(Phone) 256.216.6698.
Resources:
How to Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams
Protect yourself from phishing