These are targeted and simple forms of phishing emails designed to get victims to interact, establish a rapport, even play on your emotions, to steal data and/or money. The messages start out as basic greetings - or job opportunities - and then progress into requests for money, data, or action from you.
Tips if Something Seems Off:
Double-check the email address before responding
Look to make sure the email address is correct. In Gmail hover your mouse over the sender name for the email to display. On a mobile phone or a touchscreen, press and hold the link (don't tap!) to reveal the actual URL. (Look in the bottom left corner of the browser window.) Don't click on a link unless it goes to a URL you trust.
Follow up with the sender separately
If you didn’t expect it, reject it. Or follow-up with the individual directly in a separate email or call/text to confirm.
Report and/or flag it
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Open the message
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To the right of 'Reply' arrow
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Select 'More' (typically denoted with three vertical dots)
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Then 'Report phishing'
If you are unable to log into bMail, forward the message to phishing@berkeley.edu For more information visit https://security.berkeley.edu/resources/phishing
Examples of these types of attacks include:
Original Message:
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---------- Forwarded message --------- Dear students,
Berkeley University Of California health professionals have been closely
monitoring the spread of COVID-19 over the past two months.Therefore the
university is organizing an online part time job to sustain the students
living.I'm happy to inform you that our reputable company CORESTAFF
SERVICES Inc®,is currently running a student empowerment program.
KINDLY EMAIL BACK WITH YOUR PERSONAL EMAIL ADDRESS IF INTERESTED IN
THIS JOB POSITION.
Kind Regards
Donna Lisa
HR Manager/Consultant
CORESTAFF SERVICES Inc®
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