According to StaySafeOnline.org “phishing attacks and scams have thrived since the COVID pandemic began in 2020 and today, phishing attacks account for more than 80 percent of reported security incidents. Week 2 of Cybersecurity Awareness Month will stress the importance of being wary of emails, text messages or chat boxes that come from a stranger or someone you were not expecting. Think before you click on any suspicious emails, links or attachments and make sure to report any suspicious emails”.

Phishing emails are cast by criminals using a wide net. They are spammed out to recipients in bulk – thousands, if not hundreds of thousands at a time. They work because a very small percentage of users “act” upon the request found in the emails by clicking, downloading or filling out forms designed to steal information.

Spear phishing emails, on the other hand, are much more advanced. Rather than “casting a wide net,” spear phishing targets specific individuals and are not as easy to spot. Learn more about spear phishing and stay safe online.

Keep yourself aware and informed by checking ITS News for the latest phish emails targeting the W&L community.

Contact the ITS Helpdesk at X4357 or help@wlu.edu if you have any questions or concerns about specific emails.