Overview

• If you are reading this, you’re a possible target for Internet scams. Just by having an email address, you are a target. It really is that simple.
• College students are victimized by identity theft more than any other age group.
• Types of theft include hackers gaining access to personal information from databases, phishing e-mails or pop-ups which persuade users to disclose personal information, and cases in which personal information was sold to illegitimate organizations.
• People can protect their identity by limiting the amount of personal information they disclose and being aware of various scams.

Phishing Email

Phishing (pronounced “fishing”) is a process by which someone tries obtain your private information using deceptive means, usually by sending an email that appears to come from a business, bank, school, or other organization you trust. The email may include a link that takes you to a counterfeit web site that very closely resembles a trusted web site where they ask for your password, social security number, account number, driver’s license number or other personal information that can be used to steal your identity. Another method used most recently by phishers is to lure you to reply to a fake email with your private information.

Phishing Protective Measures - Don't Get Hooked!

• Learn to recognize phishing, they often:
  • Attempt to build credibility by spoofing a real company or university
  • Create a false urgency requiring a quick response – account will be closed
  • Insist on a call to action – click a link or reply with information
  • They often contain misspellings or other grammatical errors
• Use common sense when giving out personal information
  • Be suspicious by default
  • Check the email for fake web links or fake web addresses
  • Never give out account or personal information by email
  • Remember, SCF will never ask you for your password
• Verify the information reported in the e-mail
  • If in doubt, contact the SCF Help Desk

Related Procedures

Identity Theft Prevention

Training and Awareness