During November and December of 2013, Target users had their debit and credit card information exposed to hackers. Target did what was expected and sent emails to customers assuring them that the company was doing everything possible to protect them.
Hackers, taking advantage of the situation, sent out fake Target emails that looked like Target’s own reassuring email. These spoof emails where phishing scams, trying to gain access to customer information. The spoof emails were sent out under the guise of telling customers that their security was at risk.
Phishing
MSU takes phishing scams seriously. In fact, MSU IT Services installed an additional spam and virus prevention solution for MSU email in January. This move is part of an ongoing process to protect email from spam and viruses.
You can also take steps to keep your information safe from phishing attacks. Remember, MSU will never ask for your NetID and password via email.
Here are a few things a phishing email make ask you for:
- Social Security numbers
- Passwords
- Credit card numbers
- Bank account numbers
- Driver’s license numbers
- Names, addresses, and phone numbers in conjunction with other personal data Health, financial, and student educational record information
Visit MSU’s SecureIT to learn more about phishing and safe computing.
