Kansas State University

search

IT News

Category: Scams

Technically Speaking: Security Intelligence and Operations Center

Technically Speaking is a new video series from the Division of Information Technology. The video series will update the K-State Community on new tools, projects, and services available through IT.

In this episode of Technically Speaking, learn about K-State’s Security Intelligence and Operations Center (SIOC). Josh McCune, the Director of the SIOC, will explain what steps are being taken to protect K-State from cybersecurity threats.

The Security Intelligence and Operations Center episode of Technically Speaking is now available for viewing.

Cyber Awareness Alert: Suspicious phone calls

The Division of Information Technology (IT) has noticed increased phone calls coming from unusual country codes across campus. Some of the country codes are fake. These callers have some knowledge of K-State and our operations, and they are seeking additional information. The cybersecurity team feels this is potentially reconnaissance for a social engineering-type attack. Therefore, we ask that you please be aware of this activity and ask everyone to pay close attention to any calls and report any suspicious activity to security@ksu.edu. Continue reading “Cyber Awareness Alert: Suspicious phone calls”

Phishing Scam Alert: Apply now for emergency relief funds scam

Phishing ScamsA new phishing scam is currently targeting colleges and universities. The scam email notifies students, faculty, and staff that federal government funds are available and asks the recipient to apply for the grant money and provide their personal data. Do not click the link; this is a scam.

Some hints that the email is a scam include:

  • Misspellings
  • Typos
  • Poor grammar
  • Fake web address

When in doubt, forward the email to abuse@ksu.edu and then delete the email. Continue reading “Phishing Scam Alert: Apply now for emergency relief funds scam”

Cybersecurity: What is cyber extortion?

Cybersecurity Awareness MonthCyber extortion is an online crime in which hackers hold your data, website, computer systems, and other sensitive information hostages until you meet their demands for payment. It often takes the form of ransomware.

Cyber extortion often occurs via email-based ransom demands. With this tactic, recipients are told that their personal information will be released to their social media contacts, family, and friends if a ransom is not paid. The recipient is then instructed to pay in some form of currency (such as bitcoin) with an extremely tight deadline.

Criminals are stealing sensitive information and blocking access to data and systems using encryption. Criminals demand payment to unencrypt the data or threaten to sell or publish the data on the dark web if the ransom is not paid.

Continue reading “Cybersecurity: What is cyber extortion?”

Beware of Hurricane IDA scams

Scam AlertBad actors take advantage of natural disasters and severe weather at a time when people may be especially vulnerable. Hurricane Ida is giving scammers another path for taking advantage of people during a crisis. One way they do this is by posing as representatives of charities seeking donations for disaster relief. Scammers are looking to trick you into handing them your money or financial information.

The following are some tips for protecting yourself from disaster relief charity scams.

Do your research.

It is imperative that you do some online research before you give to any charities. The Federal Trade Commission recommends the following resources to research charity organizations:

Continue reading “Beware of Hurricane IDA scams”