Protecting yourself against phishing and job scams

Phishing scams and job scams are common forms of fraud that target your personal information and financial security. At Lesley University we do our best to keep our community informed and vigilant to protect against these threats. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• What is phishing?
• How to spot a phishing attempt
  • Phishing can happen from real accounts!
• What are job scams?
  • Warning signs of job scams
  • Need help verifying a job offer?
• Tips to protect yourself
  • General security measures:
  • Online safety:
• What to do if you suspect a scam

What is phishing?

Phishing is a type of fraud where scammers pose as trusted entities—like a bank, company, or even Lesley University—to trick you into sharing sensitive information such as passwords, Social Security numbers, or credit card details.

How to spot a phishing attempt

• Suspicious emails: Emails that appear legitimate but come from slightly altered email addresses or feel unusual.
• Urgent requests: Messages pressuring you to act quickly, such as fixing a "suspended account."
• Cash handling requests: Scammers might ask you to cash checks or send gift cards—always a red flag.
• Too-good-to-be-true offers: Unsolicited job offers, prizes, or opportunities.
• Unfamiliar links: Links that ask you to log in or provide personal details.

Phishing can happen from real accounts!

Even trusted Lesley email accounts can be hacked. If an email seems suspicious, verify it by contacting the sender directly and report it to [email protected].

What are job scams?

Job scams exploit your job search process to compromise your personal information, finances, or career prospects.

Warning signs of job scams

• Unsolicited offers: Be wary of unexpected job offers, especially those with urgent or reward-based language.
• Payment requirements: Legitimate employers will never ask for payment for training, background checks, or other fees upfront.
• Unverified employers: Check if the job is listed on the organization’s official website or verified through trusted resources like the Better Business Bureau.
• Requests for sensitive information: Personal details like Social Security numbers or bank accounts should only be shared securely after receiving a formal job offer.

Need help verifying a job offer?

• Students can email the Career Resource Center at [email protected].
• Unsure about an email? Forward it to [email protected].

Tips to protect yourself

General security measures

• Verify email senders before clicking on links or downloading attachments.
• Never share personal or financial information unless certain of legitimacy.
• Regularly check your online accounts and financial statements for unauthorized transactions from the official compan websites. 
• Update your devices and browsers with the latest security patches.
• Use strong, unique passwords for each account.

Online safety

• Avoid accessing sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi networks.
• Install security tools like browser extensions that detect fraudulent websites.
• Check that websites are secure (look for "https://" and verify the security lock icon).

What to do if you suspect a scam

1. Report phishing emails:
   • Forward to [email protected].
   • Include the original email and its headers.
2. Report phishing texts:
   • Forward to SPAM (7726).
3. Contact authorities:
   • File a complaint with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (www.ic3.gov).
   • Report to the Federal Trade Commission (ReportFraud.ftc.gov).
4. Reach out to IT:
   • Email [email protected] for guidance or to report a suspicious message.

By staying vigilant and following these best practices, you can protect yourself and our community from phishing and job scams. Your security is our priority.