Security
What is phishing?
Phishing is a common type of internet scam where fraudsters send out official looking spam or display pop-up messages to try and encourage unsuspecting users to share private information.
Stay safe from phishing attacks:
- Never reply to a message that requests your username and password. No legitimate organization, including Gaston College, should ever ask you for your password or other sensitive information via email.
- Don’t send personal information, such as social security numbers and credit card numbers via email. Email is as insecure as a postcard; it can be read any point along the way to its final destination.
- Don’t click on links in phishing messages. Scam artists can create fake login pages that look legitimate and will steal your log-in information.
- Immediately change your password if you feel that you may have accidentally replied to a phishing message.
Avoid falling victim to other types of fraud:
- Don’t give out personal information in response to uninvited solicitations
- Don’t respond to pop-up advertisements or solicitations
- Be cautious when signing up for services; always read the terms & conditions.
- Be skeptical of offers – it something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Don’t wire money to individuals you do not know personally.
- Don’t cash checks for individuals you do not know personally, especially if they give you a check for more than the correct amount and ask you to give them the difference.
