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Don't be held to ransom!

07 Sep 2016

Several universities are experiencing incidents involving ransomware, a form of phishing attack: don't be the next victim

Don't be held ransome!

Phishing is an email sent to you that tricks you into responding (by clicking on links or opening attachments) in order to steal information or download malicious software to your computer. It can be used to encrypt your documents or stop your computer from working, demanding that a 'ransom' fee be paid to a third party in order to revert the damage it has caused.

Responding to a phishing attack can:

  • Release your personal details to someone who may use them fraudulently
  • Prevent you from accessing files and folders
  • Stop your computer from working

The University has a short course available for all staff, to teach us how to spot phishing emails and so prevent these kinds of attacks. The course takes no more than 15 minutes to complete.