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The Federal Trade Commissions warns about COVID-19 scams targeting college students

College students are one of the target audiences that cybercriminals attack. Even though students aren’t on campus, they are still a top target. Please share this information with your students as a reminder to constantly be aware of potential cybersecurity threats.

Students might receive emails claiming to be about finanical aid and asking them to sign in to claim their rewards. They might even receive and email saying they have a COVID-19 economic stimulus check — and it needs to be opened through a link requiring your university login.

These are attempts to steal their credentials such as user eID, password, or other personal information. Once they have access to their credentials, they can steal their identity, personal information, and money.

Tips from the Federal Trade Commission to help avoid cybercriminal attacks:

  • Don’t click on links or download attachments from sources you don’t know. They could download viruses onto your computer or device.
  • Watch for emails, texts or phone calls claiming to be from the CDC, WHO, or a health care provider, saying that they have information about the virus. For the most up-to-date information about the Coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Instead of clicking the link in an email, cut and paste the correct link into your browser such as cdc.gov.
  • Ignore online offers for test kits, vaccinations, health insurance selling products, etc. This information will not come in an email, phone call or text.
  • Verify a charity before making a donation. Don’t rush into making a donation. If someone wants donations in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, don’t do it.
  • Make sure your antivirus software and operating systems are up-to-date and your system is free of malware.

 

Please share this information with your students! If you have any questions or concerns, contact the IT Help Desk (helpdesk@k-state.edu or 785-532-7722).

 

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