How to recognize phishing emails
The UTC campus is often a target of phishing scam emails. The emails look like official emails but the Information Technology Division (ITD) is not sending them. It is important for you to recognize these emails.
ITD will never ask you to send your password in an email. If you receive an email that asks you to send your password, you should delete it immediately.
Subject Lines
Here are some sample phishing email subject lines:
- WEBMAIL ACCOUNT DE-ACTIVATION UPGRADE. See Email example 1
- Verify Your .edu Email Account Now! See Email example 2
From Address
Check the From, Reply-To and Sender addresses. ITD will always send official emails using utc.edu.
Here are some sample phishing From and Reply to addresses:
- Internet service Manager info@customerservices.edu
- WEBMAIL HELPDESK info@helpdesk.com
Message
The message of a phishing email is trying to trick you into sending your personal information. If you send your ID and password, scammers can use your email account to send spam. Always be skeptical of official-looking emails, here are a few characteristics to look for in a phishing email.
“Verify your email address”
- ITD will never ask you to “verify your account” or “upgrade your account”
- Be Skeptical of any emails that ask you to “verify your account”
Signature
- Webmail Team
- Edu Maintenance Team
- Educational (.Edu) IT Service Help Desk Administrator.
- Webmail Help Desk.
Get Help
If you receive an email and it makes you suspicious you should contact the Help Desk. They will help you determine if the email is legit or a phishing scam.
Here are the ways you can report a suspicious email:
- Call the Help Desk at 4000
- Visit our offices at 103 Administration
- Forward the email to abuse@utc.edu or helpdesk@utc.edu
Emails sent from the IT Help Desk will be from one of these addresses:
- helpdesk@utc.edu
- itdhelpdesk@utc.edu
- stuhelp@utc.edu
