Remember to mind your ‘Be’s this holiday season
Safeguarding the UM online community
December 6, 2024 —
Cybercriminals often exploit this busy time of year to launch phishing attacks, gift card scams, and other types of frauds. Be cautious, be aware and be informed and you can stay safe online during the holidays.
- Be cautious with emails, texts, or calls related to your accounts or asking you to make purchases.
- Cybercriminals take advantage of the holiday rush to trick people into revealing personal or protected UM information or making fraudulent transactions. Look for warning signs such as unfamiliar senders, urgent language, and requests for sensitive information. If something seems suspicious, it probably is. To protect yourself, always verify the sender’s email address and look for external email tags that indicate the message is from outside your organization.
- Be aware that everyone must help to protect the UM community.
- Universities and education institutions are being targeted by cyber criminals. Staff, faculty and students must also play their part by being vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity to IST or through Microsoft’s integrated email security in Outlook.
- Be informed and take advantage of our upcoming UM cybersecurity training opportunities.
- Cybersecurity awareness programs and training can help staff, students and faculty recognize and avoid scams.
By staying aware, informed and cautious, you can enjoy a safe and secure holiday season. Remember, cybersecurity starts with you!