By now, we’ve all seen one: A random email asking for your bank details or a text message asking you to log in immediately to fix your account. As technology continues to evolve, so do the scammers. Being aware is critical, so you know what to look for and how to identify the red flags.
Phishing is one of the most common and dangerous scams the university faces, but are you familiar with its many forms? Here are just a few examples:
- Account/Password Alerts – A scammer attempts to scare you into providing sensitive information by conveying a sense of urgency about your account status.
- Gift Cards – A scammer attempts to scam you into providing sensitive information in exchange for some sort of reward.
- Job Offers – A scammer attempts to collect sensitive information, sometimes including bank details, as part of a job application promise.
- Invoices/Receipts – A scammer attempts to collect sensitive information by providing a false website to log into or including malware in an attachment.
- Voice Phishing (Vishing) – A scammer leaves a voicemail from a spoofed number requesting money or sensitive information.
- SMS Phishing – A scammer sends a text message from a spoofed number requesting money or sensitive information.
- Pop-Up Phishing – A scammer attempts to collect sensitive information or install malware by suggesting you click on a fake pop-up window.
If you suspect a phishing email or want to verify its legitimacy, forward the suspected message to phishcatcher@northeastern.edu. Detailed instructions on how to report a phishing email are available in the knowledge base.
Always follow the tips below to help identify these sorts of phishing scams.
- Know Your Sender – Do not open attachments or click links in emails from an unknown sender. When in doubt, confirm the legitimacy of the sender through another communication method.
- Know Your Content – Hover over links to verify the URL. Do not download or open attachments unless you trust the sender.
- Keep Your Information Private – Never provide your Northeastern credentials over email. Be especially suspicious of emails asking for sensitive or personal information.
- Know the Signs – Familiarize yourself with common phishing techniques and red flags.
If you believe you’ve fallen for a scam, it’s important to act fast to minimize the potential damage. Learn what actions you can take to report and protect yourself. Stay safe!