PHISHING EXAMPLE: UPDATE EMAIL: Don't lose access to your account!!

February 19, 2021

These are targeted and simple forms of phishing emails designed to get victims to click on a link that contains malicious content or steals your credentials.

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

  • Open the message

  • To the right of 'Reply' arrow

  • Select 'More' (typically denoted with three vertical dots)

  • 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:

-------- Forwarded Message --------
> Subject: UPDATE EMAIL: Don't lose access to your account!!
> Date: 19 Feb 2021 05:37:51 -0800
> From: berkeley.edu Support
>
>
> Security Notice!
>
> Dear XXXX,
>
> Our security system has detected some irregular activity connected to your
> account. you will be unable to send and recieve emails until this issue has
> been resolved
>
> CLICK HERE TO VALIDATE NOW
>
>
> To prevent further irregular activity we will restrict access to your
> account within 72 hours if you did not validate your account.
> *Note:* Mail Administrator will always keep you posted of security
> updates. Mail Admin
>
berkeley.edu ©2021 Secured Service.
>

Warning:  The links and email addresses included in these messages are from real-life examples, do not attempt to explore them.

The most dangerous links have been removed - you can hover your cursor over these links to see the original address in a pop-up techtip (instead of in the corner of the browser window).

How to report phishing:

  • Open the message

  • To the right of 'Reply' arrow

  • Select 'More' (typically denoted with three vertical dots)

  • Then 'Report phishing'

If you are unable to log into bMail, forward the message to phishing@berkeley.edu