Phishing Prevention

The IET Help Desk would like to share a few reminders to help you recognize and avoid phishing attempts, which are a constant security threat. Cybercriminals often use convincing emails, login prompts, and file-sharing requests, often emphasizing urgency to trick users into giving away access. Taking a moment to pause and review unexpected messages can help protect your account and college systems. Below are some simple precautions to follow to ensure you are not a victim.

Only approve sign-ins you initiated. Never enter a code on a Microsoft sign-in page or approve a login request just because an email, text, or message tells you to. Only do this if you initiated the sign-in yourself on your own device.

• Remember: IET Help Desk will never send you emails asking to verify your account!
• Slow down and read prompts carefully. Phishing attempts often rely on urgency and distraction. Taking a few extra seconds to review a login request or approval prompt can prevent costly mistakes.
• Be cautious with unexpected messages and invitations. Treat unplanned document shares, Teams invitations, password reset notices, and login requests with caution–even if they appear to come from a trusted Microsoft service.
• Review your account activity regularly. Check the devices connected to your Microsoft account and watch for unfamiliar sign-ins. If something does not look right, remove the device, change your password, and review your account security settings right away.
• Only approve sign-ins you initiated. Never enter a code on a Microsoft sign-in page or approve a login request just because an email, text, or message tells you to. Only do this if you initiated the sign-in yourself on your own device.