When it comes to email hackers, April Fools is not the only day they try to play a prank on you. Now more than ever, we are seeing an increase in phishing attempts which means it is more important than ever for you to stay alert! Some of the common phishing attempts we have been seeing lately include warnings about two university logins, recruiting departments reaching out or exciting job opportunities. 

When it comes to phishing there are some obvious signs you can always look for:  

• Suspicious links - most likely with some spelling errors 

• Login request - or requests for other private information  

• Display name spoofing – a person's name and email might not always match up  

• Spelling errors and bad grammar – when a reputable source emails you, it will always go through rounds of review to avoid these errors 

• Threats – think of a phisher as a bully who will make you think you need to take action immediately  

• Spoofed websites – check the URL, any links on a page or graphics. If you know what website you’re going to need, consider going there directly instead without using the link. 

FSU and Information Technology Services will never ask for any personal information via email, will never send you messages from a non-@fsu.edu@email address and will never require you to login to view a message. If you are even slightly suspicious of an email, you can call the ITS Service Desk 850-644-4357 or chat with an agent online to verify whether an email claiming to be from FSU is real. You can always look and see reported phishing attempts and tips for how to avoid these scams on the ITS website. Remember to stay alert, and then report when checking your FSU or personal email.