These are targeted and simple forms of phishing emails designed to get victims to interact and establish a rapport. The messages start out as basic greetings or job opportunities and then progress into requests for money or data.
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 --------- Subject: STUDENT PART - TIME JOB To: Dear Student, We got your contact through your school database and I'm happy to inform you that our reputable company Cisco Inc® is currently running a student empowerment program. This program is to help devoted and hardworking students secure a part time job which does not deter them from doing any other, you just need a few hours to do this weekly and with an attractive weekly wages. KINDLY EMAIL BACK WITH YOUR ALTERNATE EMAIL ADDRESS IF INTERESTED IN THIS JOB POSITION. Best Regards, Jin Xiang Hiring Manager/Consultant Cisco Inc®. |