Police Alert
We have received notification from Police Scotland that fraudsters are sending out a high number of phishing emails to university email addresses claiming to be from your HR department. The email claims that the recipient is entitled to a pay rise and to click on a link to claim the pay rise. The link then takes you to a spoofed university website telling you to enter your personal details (including university login details and financial information). These financial details can then be used by criminals and the login details are usually passed around and sold for future fraud campaigns.
What is Phishing?
Phishing is a fraudulent process of attempting to trick you into giving out personal information, or visiting a fake websites. Phishing attacks are often launched by email. Responding to a phishing attack can:
- Release your personal details to someone who may use them fraudulently.
- Encrypt your files and folders, demanding that a ‘ransom’ fee be paid to revert the damage.
- Stop your computer from working completely.
People who engineer phishing campaigns are criminals and hackers.
If you receive such an email please do not click on the link or share any personal details. If you believe you are a victim of a phishing email please contact us immediately on 01786 467250 or by email at information.centre@stir.ac.uk