University News
E-Mail Phishing Scam
September 16, 2015
MACOMB, IL -- The Western Illinois University Office of Public Safety (OPS) would like to alert the Western community about some phishing scams currently circulating via the University's e-mail.
According to OPS Lt. Kalib McGruder, the e-mails, which appear to be originating from outside the United States, involve "work from home opportunities," "money order" links and other such "too good to be true" offers. While the University's email servers block the majority of these kinds of email, occasionally some may circumvent the spam filter and find their way into email inboxes.
McGruder stressed that individuals should not click on any links and should simply delete the e-mail.
"Anyone asking you to cash a check you weren't expecting or asking you to provide your personal information is typically not affiliated with a reputable organization," McGruder added. "Some of these e-mail requests appear authentic; however, under no circumstances should you cash checks that arrive unsolicited or give out personal information, including credit card numbers, checking account numbers or your Social Security number."
According to the U.S. Secret Service, protecting yourself against fraud and identity theft is simple: notify your bank or credit card company immediately if you have lost your card; do not put your credit card number or Social Security number on checks; do not give your credit card number or other personal numbers to anyone calling on the telephone or e-mailing offering you prizes or gifts; do not give your checking account number to people you do not know, even if they claim they are from your bank; and check bank statements carefully.
Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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