Phishing Alert - 3/21/13

Information Technology has been made aware of a phishing message sent to multiple users and departments claiming to be from ADP. This email was a phishing attempt made to look like an ADP payroll invoice and the email included an attachment that was a Trojan known to steal passwords saved in programs, keystrokes, and screen captures.

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If you think you may have opened the attachment, please contact our HelpDesk as soon as possible at (434) 592-7800. You should also

• Stop using the computer you were on when you opened the attachment.
• Immediately change your password using another computer.
• If others have used your computer, have them change their password as well.
• Bring your computer to the IT HelpDesk

What is phishing?

Phishing is a common type of internet scam where fraudsters send out official looking spam or display pop-up messages to try and encourage unsuspecting users to share private information.

Stay safe from phishing attacks:

• Never reply to a message that asks for your username and password. No legitimate organization, including Liberty University, should ever ask you for your password or other sensitive information via email.
• Don't send personal information, such as social security numbers and credit card numbers via email. Email is as insecure as a postcard; it can be read at any point along the way to its final destination.
• Don't click on links in phishing messages. Scam artists can create fake login pages that look legitimate and will steal your log-in information.
• Report any phishing messages you receive in your Liberty email account to emailscams@liberty.edu.
• Immediately change your password if you feel that you may have accidentally replied to a phishing message.

Avoid falling victim to other types of fraud:

• Don't give out personal information in response to uninvited solicitations
• Don't respond to pop-up advertisements or solicitations
• Be cautious when signing up for services; always read the terms & conditions.
• Be skeptical of offers - it something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Don't wire money to individuals you do not know personally.
• Don't cash checks for individuals you do not know personally, especially if they give you a check for more than the correct amount and ask you to give them the difference.