The following advice is for Phishing emails and cyber security awareness. It is always a good idea to refresh your memory on this process and remain aware and vigilant at recognising the continued threat.

Some useful tips to avoid getting caught:

• Be wary of emails from unknown senders, especially when they ask you to confirm information.
• You should never be asked to enter your credentials via an email
• Never click links or open attachments from emails that you are not expecting or look suspicious

Characteristics of a phishing email:

• Incorrect email address format
• Poor spelling or grammar
• There is usually a catch, a request to send money, make a purchase, confirm your details
• Unrealistic threats or demands – urgent action or your account will be closed.
• Avoid clicking on untrustworthy links within emails
• Asked sensitive information – regardless of the sender, you should be highly suspicious of any email that requires you to disclose sensitive information such as credit card details or password.
• Be conscious not to download files onto your machine, which could be Malware.

What to do next?

Either delete the message or mark as "Phishing” in Outlook on the web

Help, I've clicked the link in the email!

If you have typed your username and password into the web page from a phishing email, please change your password now at password.beds.ac.uk

How to protect your computer:

• Update the operating system software patches
• Ensure your anti-virus/Malware software is up to date