Phishing Alert: Unusual Sign-in Attempt Scam | Information Technology | University of Pittsburgh
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Phishing Alert: Unusual Sign-in Attempt Scam

Tuesday, December 1, 2015 - 10:07

 

Computing Services and Systems Development (CSSD) is responding to an email phishing scam that claims an unusual sign-in attempt has been detected on your Webmail account and that you should click a link to verify your account and confirm your location. The email message appears to come from an external email address. 

The following is a sample of the recent fraudulent email. If you receive this message (or any message similar to it), delete it without replying, opening any attachments, or clicking on any links within the email.

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Subject: Helpdesk & Support Updates

Webmail account

Unusual sign-in activity

Dear User,

Attention! Your Webmail Account has been violated! Login from IP address 12.34.567.89 was detected to access your personal webmail. Please click and confirm the link below for re-confirm of your location. Click here (link removed) to verify your account Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Technical Support

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The link in the phishing email directs readers to a fraudulent Outlook Web App login page similar to the page shown below. The page attempts to collect your username and password.

 Fake Outlook Web App page

CSSD strongly recommends that you do not reply to unsolicited emails or emails from unverifiable sources. Avoid clicking on links contained in such emails, as these may lead to sites that contain harmful software. If a link looks suspicious, you can hover over the link with your mouse to preview the URL without clicking on it.

In addition, CSSD recommends that all users install Symantec Endpoint Protection software and use the LiveUpdate feature to get the latest virus definitions. As a complement to Symantec Endpoint Protection, CSSD offers a free version of Malwarebytes for individuals and departments. Students, faculty, and staff can download Malwarebytes and Symantec Endpoint Protection at no cost through the Software Download Service at My Pitt. Departments can submit a help request to obtain Malwarebytes for multiple machines.

Please contact the Technology Help Desk at 412-624-HELP [4357] if you have any questions regarding this announcement.