Phishing

Don't Get Hooked!

Phishing is an email fraud method used by hackers and thieves to lure unsuspecting recipients into giving their sensitive information or to download malicious software. 

Phish background

Phishing = Social Engineering

  • Typically uses urgent or exciting language to get you to act quickly without thinking
  • Asks for passwords, bank account information, usernames, credit card numbers, social security numbers, etc.
  • Displays fake URLs that actually direct you to dangerous sites
  • Contains attachments that you are directed to open for an urgent reason, or because you will gain something important from doing so.

Don't Trust -- Verify!

  • Never respond to any suspicious email by clicking on links, opening unexpected attachments, or providing personal or financial information.
  • Don't believe everything you read. If you are unsure as to whether a website is legitimate, confirm it by contacting the company or organization.
  • Double check the links of websites you visit. "Google" the site to ensure the link is correct.
  • Never provide personal information or information about your company/organization via email, text, or over the phone.

If You Are Compromised

  • If you believe you might have inadvertently revealed sensitive university information such as your NetID password, you should change your password immediately. If you have additionally questions, comments or concerns contact UA Information Security at security@arizona.edu or (520) 626-8324.
  • If you provided personal information that could be used for identity theft or fraud in response to a fraudulent email, you should immediately contact the company being spoofed.

Report that Phish!

If you receive a suspicious email, and it is NOT listed in our Phishing Alerts, please forward the email to UA Information Security in one of the following two ways:

  1. Instructions on forwarding the email as an attachment
  2. Send the full email headers

Our office works with UITS using the information you provide in order to minimize the current phishing threat. We will also use the information for analysis and trending information on security threats to campus.

Resources