As we get to work on starting the fall semester, scammers are working harder to find their next victim. While we’re all familiar with email scams, scammers are moving beyond email and into other forms of communication. It’s important to be aware of the different types of scams and how to spot them as you… Continue reading New Year, New Scams
Category: Cybersecurity
Be Aware of Text Message Scams
While we all know about email scams and how to detect them, there’s another type of scam that is occurring with greater frequency – text message (or SMS) scams. These scams are sent to your cell phone via text message. Most text message scams are similar to email scams in nature, but they’re often shorter… Continue reading Be Aware of Text Message Scams
Be Aware of Holiday Scams
While the holidays are a great time for all to relax and enjoy the company of family and friends, scammers are working non-stop to cheat you out of money or gain access to your accounts. Remaining vigilant during this time is imperative to ensure the security of your user accounts and your bank and other… Continue reading Be Aware of Holiday Scams
Don’t get Tricked. Updates are a Treat!
Software updates – whether for application software or the computer’s operating system – are important to install. While some of them are updates to features or fixes for bugs that we’ve never experienced, many also include important fixes for security risks in the software. It is imperative that we keep our software up-to-date with all the latest updates and patches. Not only does this allow us to be using the latest and greatest features of the software, but it also prevents scammers, hackers, and other ne’er-do-wells from gaining unauthorized access to our systems, allowing malicious activity, such as identity theft or bank account access.
Phishing, not Fishing
Phishing? Don’t you mean “fishing?” Nope! Phishing, which has nothing to do with that band from Vermont, is a scam that tries to gather personal data from a user. This could include your account names and passwords or even more sensitive data, like your Social Security number or bank account information. These scams use social engineering to trick the victim into sending this information to the scammer via email, text message, or even a web form.
Two-Step? Isn’t that a dance?
Multi-factor authentication (MFA), also known as two-factor or two-step authentication (2FA), is an additional means of user verification prior to being allowed access to your account. Which accounts does this include? Well, it should include all accounts that you use that offer it as an option.
Pump Up Your Passwords
Passwords are the first line of protection for your accounts. Weak passwords allow hackers and scammers easy access to your accounts – at best, allowing them to see your photos, but at worst allowing them access to your bank accounts. The good news is that it is not difficult to prevent unauthorized access. Strong, unique passwords can prevent your account from being compromised. Using a password manager can help keep these longer, harder to remember passwords at your finger tips. Continue reading for more information on creating stronger passwords and using password managers.
Tech Tip: Microsoft Authenticator for MFA
Microsoft Authenticator is the most secure method for the second factor of authentication when accessing your accounts at the college. It’s also the most versatile method. For these reasons, it is the IT Department’s recommended method for MFA. While Microsoft Authenticator works best when your device has an internet connection, either via Wi-Fi or a… Continue reading Tech Tip: Microsoft Authenticator for MFA
Email Scams: Watch for these Red Flags
Email scams are on the rise. The most important line of defense against scams is you! Here are some “red flags” to look out for when reading your email. If you receive an email that raises any of those red flags: Please be sure to report phishing scams to Microsoft to better improve the email filters. To help better protect your account, we… Continue reading Email Scams: Watch for these Red Flags
MFA Required on Campus
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is now required on campus for access to all services that use the Microsoft single sign-on. All users should ensure they have their MFA method with them wherever they might access their accounts, including in classrooms and computer labs.
