ITS Office of Information Security

Fraudulent Email Scams

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Message sent to all Faculty, Staff, and Students on August 2, 2024:

Our IT security team has detected a recent increase in fraudulent email scams targeting App State students, faculty and staff.

These scams tend to increase in volume and sophistication at the beginning of an academic semester. Often, they will impersonate faculty members or known contacts and request or promise payment in exchange for research, employment or internship opportunities. 

Please note that Appalachian State University faculty and staff will never ask you to pay them directly for any service related to the university. If you are ever asked to do this or to provide other information, such as a social security number via email, report the email immediately to our office. If you clicked on anything, notify us immediately at security@appstate.edu.

We want to ensure your safety and protect your personal information. Here are some essential safety measures to follow to recognize scams and protect yourself from cybercrime:

  1. Pause and review before you click: 
    1. Always verify the sender’s email address and carefully analyze the content of any suspicious emails. Make sure the sender’s name matches their @appstate.edu email address.
    2. Be cautious of unusual requests or the need for urgent responses, especially after business hours.
    3. Watch for grammar errors or incomplete sentences. These often indicate phishing attempts.

  2. Double-check requests: If someone asks for personal information or payment, verify their identity independently. Contact the person or their office directly to confirm the request.

  3. Avoid unknown sources: Be cautious when opening emails from unknown senders or clicking on suspicious hyperlinks.

  4. Report suspicious emails to our Office of Information Security by forwarding to phish@appstate.edu or reaching out directly at 828-262-6946 or security@appstate.edu.

We’re here to help you stay safe and protect your personal information!  Visit security.appstate.edu for more information about ways you can protect yourself and others from cybercrime.