Phishing remains a prevalent cyber threat where attackers use deceptive emails, texts, or websites to manipulate individuals into divulging sensitive information like passwords or financial data.
Recently, there have been reports of fraudulent messages impersonating NOCCCD employees, including Deans and Managers, circulated via email or text to Fullerton College staff.
If you've interacted with such messages by clicking links, opening attachments, or providing information, please contact the Fullerton College Academic Computing Technologies (ACT) Help Desk immediately at [email protected] or 714-992-7111.
To safeguard against such threats, it's crucial to stay vigilant. Here are essential tips to protect yourself:
a. Exercise Caution with Unknown Sources: Be cautious with emails or texts from unfamiliar or suspicious senders, or those with unfamiliar addresses or numbers. Avoid opening attachments or clicking on links as they could lead to phishing attempts.
b. Verify Authenticity: Before entering personal information, verify the legitimacy of emails and websites. Check URLs to ensure they belong to recognized domains like fullcoll.edu or nocccd.edu. When in doubt, contact the supposed sender through a trusted channel to confirm the request.
c. Beware of Urgency: Phishers often use urgent or threatening language to manipulate recipients. Take time to assess such requests and verify their authenticity before responding or providing any information.
d. Keep Software Updated: Ensure your devices and software are up to date with the latest security patches. Regular updates help protect against vulnerabilities that phishers exploit.
e. Suspicious Activity: If you suspect a, text, or website is a phishing attempt, promptly report it to the ACT Help Desk.
Report! If you suspect an Outlook email, utilize the built-in Report Message feature to help improve our email system's filtering capabilities.
The report feature can be found in the Outlook the application, Outlook (new) and on the web based version (Link to the FC Outlook: CLICK HERE):
1. Click "Report Message": Look at the top of the email window or toolbar and click on "Report Message."
2. Choose "Phishing" or "Junk": Select "Phishing" if it looks like a scam trying to get your info, or "Junk" if it's unwanted spam.
3. Follow Any Prompts: If asked, confirm your choice to report the email.
4. You're Done: Outlook will take care of the rest, helping to protect you and others from similar emails.
*If the report feature cannot be found or does not work, first try another way to access your Outlook - we recommend the web based version. Your application and/or computer may need an update.
Remember, staying informed and proactive is key to protecting yourself and the college community against phishing and other cyber threats. If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact the ACT Help Desk.
Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our digital environment safe and secure.
