Phishing Scam Comes Back To School
Note: This story may not be current. It is part of the IT News Archive, and exists as a historical document.
A scam first reported on May 14th of this year has returned. This time, an e-mail allegedly from Sarah Williams at the HelpDesk, includes a request for personal information (Username, Password, Address, and Department).
The University of Houston does not ask for personal information (passwords, Social Security numbers, birth dates, etc.) in e-mail messages.
Phishing messages often appear to come from trusted sources, induce victims to visit illegitimate web sites, open attachments, or as in the case of this current scam, simply have persons respond with the information requested. Phishers can then install viruses, steal computer files and personal information, which can lead to identity theft.
Help Protect Yourself With Best Practices
Here are four best practices that will help protect you and your computers:
- Be wary of suspicious e-mail messages and other electronic communications from sources you do not know or recognize.
- Use the latest versions of your operating system (OS) and applications.
- Have the latest security software updates (patches) installed. This includes patches for your OS and applications.
- Keep your anti-virus software up to date.
To report spam or suspect messages, e-mail abuse@uh.edu .
For More Information
For information or assistance, you can contact the IT Support Center at 713.743.1411 or email support@uh.edu , or check out the related IT News stories:
- Spam Message Pretends To Be From UH: www.uh.edu/infotech/news/story.php?story_id=893
- Phishing Scams: www.uh.edu/infotech/news/story.php?story_id=802
- Protect Your Computer: www.uh.edu/infotech/news/story.php?story_id=877
- Spam: www.uh.edu/infotech/news/story.php?story_id=884
