Don't Get Hooked by a Phishing Scam

A recent e-mail received by many on campus warns of a virus and directs people to a web address that asks for username, password and other personal identity information. This message is a phishing scam. The sender intends to trick recipients into providing information to use your identify to obtain credit cards or perform other types of fraud.

Information Technology Services (ITS) will never ask for this information via e-mail. Be aware that it is possible for others to create e-mail messages that can mimic an official communication originating from an Andrews.edu account.

Here are steps you can take to protect your personal information online.

• Never provide personal identity information (i.e., username and password, social security number, birthday, bank account numbers, credit card numbers) in response to an e-mail request.
• Do not trust links in an e-mail message. Instead type in website address into your browser.
• Do not call company phone numbers given in an e-mail. Check a reliable source to obtain the number.
• Do not open unexpected e-mail attachments or instant message links.

For more information on phishing scams, visit http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt127.shtm; contact the ITS Helpdesk at helpdesk@andrews.edu; or call 471-6016.
Information Technology Services