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Information Technology

Click Wisely

Click only links and files that are expected, and only from people you trust

Phishing is a scam in which someone sends you a message trying to get you to follow provided instructions, click a link, or open a file.  They want to steal your information. We identify and block hundreds of thousands of phishing emails every week.  Here are some strategies you can use for the ones that slip through.

How to report phishing emails 

Forward phishing emails to: phishbowl@bentley.edu or helpdesk@bentley.edu  

Quick reporting from savvy people at Bentley could save other and has in the past

When you report a suspected phishing email, we check it out. If it is a phishing attack, we may do the following: 

  • Block dangerous links so people can connect to them
  • Block malicious files from being delivered to inboxes in the future 
  • Investigate if there are compromised systems or accounts 

How to spot a phishing attempt

Phishing can come in many different forms, from obvious-to-spot frauds to sophisticated deceptions, but they share some common characteristics. Before you click a link, consider if the message you are reading contains these attributes. 

  1. Does this make me feel anxious and reactive? 
  2. Is this “normal?” Is this how I normally communicate with this person or organization? 
  3. Is money changing hands in any form? 

How to Read a Website Address 

On the Internet, everything is just a click away. Unfortunately, those links don't always go where they look like they should go. When you read the address, you can know the website your browser will visit if you follow the link.  

Revealing the Address 

Desktops 

Hover your pointer over a link without clicking. You will see the address pop up in a box somewhere in the bottom of the window or by pointer, depending on your browser.  

Mobile Devices

Press a link and hold it until the link appears in a pop up box. In most cases, you will be given the option to follow the link, copy it, or open it in a new tab.  

Think About the Link 

When you click a link, your browser is connected to the link's address. Phishing attacks often use close looking links to trick you. Legitimate partnerships may use Bentley's name in their links, but attackers can as well. Treat these links with caution. Misspellings should never be trusted. 

Bentley Addresses

  • http://www.bentley.edu
  • http://www.example.bentley.edu
  • http://www.bentley.edu/example

Non-Bentley Addresses

  • http://www.bentley.example.com
  • http://www.example.com/bentley
  • http:/www.bentley.com

Targeted Phishing Address

  • http://www.bentely.edu
  • http://www.bentleey.edu
  • http://www.bently.edu