LITS is seeing an increase in Ransomware threats targeting educational institutions. Ransomware uses collected personal data or encryption tactics to force a payment from the College. These threats often begin with a targeted email to a specific individual, and may look like it is from a person, authority figure, or department you trust (i.e., your supervisor, a dean, or potential employer). This tactic is called: spear-phishing.
To keep the MHC community safe, we ask that you to take the following precautions.
Active Steps:
- Flag phishing messages using Gmail
- Store files in Google Drive
- Password protect and backup critical documents (like those related to research)
- Reboot your computer at least once per week
- Windows users: connect to the MHC VPN at least once a week
- Install security updates when prompted (some updates require a restart)
Stay informed and remain vigilant:
- Read SANS Newsletters
- Check the Phish Bowl for recent attempts within the MHC community
Do your part for our community by taking a few of these steps. Contact the Technology Help Desk with questions, or if you suspect an email is a phishing attempt.