Email scams targeting Gwinnett Tech Students are on the increase.
Suspicious messages targeting Gwinnett Tech Students - What is phishing?
The Gwinnett Tech IT department is taking steps to protect students but there are also smart things you should do to protect yourself.
Sometimes links don't go where they say they do. Be careful of this.
Hover over links before clicking
In the example below, the legitimate link has been replaced with a form setup by the scammers.
If you are looking at the website on your computer you can see this by hovering over the link with your mouse before clicking it.
If the link does not match the text it is likely fake and probably a scam.
Watch out!
What about on a phone?
If you are on your phone or a tablet checking links is different.
- Long-press the link: Instead of tapping the link, hold your finger down on it.
- Wait for the dialog box: A bubble or dialog box will appear, displaying the full URL of the destination.
- Review the URL: Carefully examine the URL to make sure it's what you expect and doesn't appear suspicious.
- You can then choose if the link looks safe to open or not.
- If it does not match the text displayed it may not be real
The link destination (URL) will appear, and you can check to see if it looks suspicious before going to the site.
Be careful of links in emails, slow down
When reading email on your phone, you are more vulnerable to scammers who embed links to malicious websites in phishing emails. Take a few extra seconds to check link destinations before tapping on your smartphone or tablet. It’s good to look before you tap as well as before you click. Taking a little extra time may help you avoid a scam.
Try it out
Try it out hovering or long pressing on the link below, the example link is safe:
https://gwinnetttech.edu/helpdesk
The text that shows up when you hover over the link, or long press on your phone, does not match the link that is displayed.
This link is legitimate, but text that does not match can be a clue of a possible scam. You should always check out links before following them.
Use a URL checking site
If you are ever unsure of a link you can always ask us about it. We would rather you ask than fall victim to a scam.
Stuhelpdesk@gwinnetttech.edu | 678-226-6407
You can also use one of the URL checking sites below.
- urlscan.io - Quickly get a screenshot and redirects (run by @heipi)
- CheckPhish.ai - Phishing detection engine (run by RedMarlin)
- phishcheck.me - Custom phishing detection engine
- VirusTotal - Checks against multiple blacklists
If you need tech support with anything else, please let us know.
You can send us a message, give us a call, or come see us in person in the front lobby in building 100 on the Lawrenceville campus.
Tech Support desk on campus, hours and location.
Thank you
Student Tech Support
Stuhelpdesk@gwinnetttech.edu | 678-226-6407
https://gwinnetttech.edu/helpdesk
Frequently asked questions can also be found on our webpage.