Most email scams begin with messages from an external email system. As part of the University of Central Arkansas's effort to reduce phishing and other email scams, these external email messages will now receive an [External] tag in the message subject.
Internal Message Subject Example:
"Meeting today at 3:00pm"
External Message Subject Example:
"[External] Meeting today at 3:00pm"
Phishing emails are getting more sophisticated and compelling. The email subject might be worded in a very compelling way. The text itself includes threats of lost access, requests to change your password, or even IRS fines. The sender’s email address can be a clever fake, or can even be “spoofed” to appear like someone you know. Don’t believe it!
Many safe and legitimate email messages come from external email systems. The [External] tag does not mean the message is a scam, but it does provide additional information about the message source. The [External] tag is there to help. The [External] tag means you need to stop and think about this email:
- Is it from a sender you know? Were you expecting the email? Verify with your friend or co-worker over the phone if you are unsure or if the email seems a bit off.
- If there is a link in the message, Don’t click it!
- Does the message make sense? A legitimate message would not ask you to provide your credentials to maintain your account access.
- No [External] tag, but still a bit suspicious? Internal users can have their account compromised and be used to send out additional phishing emails.
This new feature will help protect your account from possibly being compromised as well as protect the University. If your account gets compromised, the spammers may gain access to University systems and confidential information.