Information Technology Services

How do I avoid getting phished?

  • Report/Delete emails from unknown addresses
  • Do not click email links or open attachments from unknown sources
  • Be wary of requests for confidential information; No legitimate organization will ask you to provide your password via email, text message, online form, etc.
  • Never share passwords, usernames, or accounts
  • Question any “scare tactic” messages; Account closures and loss of access are common fraudulent threats
  • Keep antivirus software up to date and perform regular scans
  • Beware that sender email addresses, links, and websites can be faked to appear to originate from George Mason

If you suspect a received email is a phish, please report this email via the Microsoft Report button. Instructions on reporting emails as phishing can be found at Reporting a Phishing Email in Outlook.

You may also contact ITS Support at 703-993-8870 or Live Chat, so the email can be assessed.

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