Information Security & Assurance wants you and all of Fordham University to use technology safely and securely. Fordham IT News posts breaking news and updates on information security issues we want you to know about. Read our blog: IT Security Blog.
Follow these tips and protect yourself from spam and phishing!
Email
Before clicking on links or opening attachments in an email, verify the sender. An email from friends or family might contain malicious content, if their account has been hacked. If you don’t think the email sounds like something they would send, they probably didn’t send it.
Credit Cards
Use a credit card for online purchases. Debit and ATM card numbers can be stolen and more easily used without your authorization.
Secure Websites
Always look for https (as opposed to http) on a website’s URL when making a purchase. The “s” indicates the site provides a layer of security for transmitting your personal information over the Internet.
Browsers and Security Software
Keep your browser, browser plug-ins (such as video players), and security software up to date. Make sure you have antivirus software installed on your computer(s).
Too Good to be True?
Avoid clicking on links on websites, online ads, and emails with offers on popular items and gadgets that sound too good to be true. Those links might contain viruses that will instantly download onto your computer.
Scams
If a free or discounted offer requests a bank account, social security, or credit card number, it’s most likely a scam.
Get Help
If you receive an email request for personal information or are concerned about an email, contact the IT Service Desk at 718-817-3999 or HelpIT@fordham.edu to assess the email’s validity. Subscribe to the Fordham IT News for updated information about phishing and spam, including current known activity at Fordham University.