Scam emails can range anywhere from job listings to information requests and anything in between. One common scam is called “phishing.” These attacks take various forms, often utilizing deceptive tactics to trick individuals into providing sensitive information. 

Scam emails at Point Park have been an issue for a long time, according to Tim Wilson, Associate Vice President of IT. Hackers are getting increasingly creative with their tactics, he said.

Scammers will create fake emails to convince an email receiver that it comes from a credible source, such as the university or an employee, and may request login credentials or personal details, which are then ‘captured’ by the hacker.

Spotting fraudulent emails can be challenging, but there are key indicators to watch for.

 “A major warning sign is any request for personal information, such as your Social Security number or banking details, which should never be shared or asked for via email. These are often dead giveaways,” Dr. Wilson said. “Additionally, if it seems too good to be true, it usually is too good to be true.”

Leah Reiger, a senior dance major, said she feels unsafe when it comes to the quantity of scam emails she sees, although she knows how to spot the red flags. 

These feelings of unease are not isolated. Mairin Ryan, a senior dance major said they receive a scam email at least once or twice a month, but feels safer knowing that IT is on top of the situation. 

Yet, If you fall victim to a scam email, act quickly to minimize damage. IT recommends to contact the Helpdesk immediately for guidance on next steps. The school will soon be moving to a Microsoft Authenticator app at the beginning of the Fall semester for extra security.