Together, we can create a safer digital environment for everyone at the university. As we get better at spotting suspicious messages and alerting the IT Service Desk for investigation, fraudsters are adding other tactics. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) have advised us all to watch out for scam phone calls.
Follow these 6 tips to spot and respond to a suspicious call.
1. Stop and think
Scams rely on you responding or giving information without checking first. If you are unsure, don't share any information until you have confirmed the caller is genuine. We recommend that you check at least three pieces of information about a student before providing information over the phone.
2. Check twice, share once
Even if they can provide the requested information, if you have any doubts whether a caller is who they say they are, don’t share over the phone. Let them know you’ll follow up in writing and send information to their university email address.
Fraudsters use public information about our staff and students to impersonate them, sending requested information via email will keep our data inside our systems.
3. Be suspicious
Be suspicious of calls asking you to respond quickly or urgently. Scammers often create a sense of urgency or play on our emotions to encourage us to act without thinking. Slow the conversation and follow up in writing to give yourself time to consider the appropriate response.
4. Always stay security aware
Even when you're not working. Hoaxers don't care how they get through to you. Be aware of suspicious callers in your personal life too. NCSC have advice on protecting yourself from scam phone calls.
5. Think about what you request too
Consider how you request information from colleagues, avoid phone calls and use Teams or email so your identity can be confirmed more easily.
6. Report suspicious messages
If you suspect a caller is not genuine you can report the call to the IT Service Desk who will be able to advise you and escalate to our security teams if necessary.
By reporting suspicious callers, you help us investigate potentially dangerous contacts, so we can take action to keep our community safe.
Find out more on our Information Security page
Our teams work hard to make sure our systems are as safe as they can be. For information about how we do this, and how you can help, please visit our Information Security page.
