Data Security

Is this message legitimate?

I don't know. But, if you aren't expecting the message, you should initially assume it is not. Assume it is a phishing attempt. There was a time that all phishing attempts were easily detectable by poor grammar and misspellings; that is no longer the case. Many phishing emails are now extremely legit looking.

How do I know if this message is legitimate?

Reach out to the sender of the message and ask if they sent it. Just don't use an unknown email address from the message itself. Use a known good email address, or call or text a known good phone number.

What if the message is from someone I know?

The best phishing attempts are from hacked accounts and new accounts made to look like old accounts. If the message doesn't make sense or does not sound like the "voice" of the sender, assume it is not really from them. Also, be very careful to examine email addresses to ensure they are what you would expect. Just because a person's name is in the email address doesn't mean it is from them. Someone else already owns the email address jody.johnson@gmail.com, but it is not me.

Do I need to notify you when I receive these messages?

There was a day not so long ago when the answer would have been, "yes." We are past that day now. If you have not interacted with the message (other than reading it), then simply delete the message and return to your day. While it used to be a random occurrence, phishing emails are sent to users in our district every single day now. There is nothing we can do other than educate users on the dangers of phishing messages.

What if I clicked on a link or opened an attachment from a message I originally thought was legitimate?

If the link prompted you to enter your username, email address, and/or password ... then IMMEDIATELY change your password using instructions we have previously provided you. If you clicked on a link and noticed something downloaded to your device, you should stop using that device until further notice. Notify your library media specialist so they can take a look and/or enter a work order on your behalf.