Spammers and phishers are getting better every day at making their messages look authentic. They often ask for information such as usernames, passwords, social security numbers and other sensitive information.

Never respond to any email with confidential information. UH and other legitimate businesses will never ask for this information via email.

How to Protect Yourself

Here are some best practices that will help protect you and your computers:

• Beware of messages that claim your account has been suspended.
• Be suspicious of any email with urgent requests for personal financial information.
• Never click on a link in an email. Instead, always type the legitimate Web address of the site you want to reach directly into your Web browser.
• Be suspicious of email messages and other electronic communications from sources you do not know or recognize.
• Use the latest versions of your operating system (OS) and applications.
• Have the latest security software updates (patches) installed. This includes patches for your OS and applications.
• Keep your anti-virus software up to date.
• Report any suspicious emails.

For your convenience, download our "Don't get hooked by Phishing email" handout.

Again, if you have any questions regarding possible spam or phishing scams, please contact UIT Security at security@uh.edu or via phone at 832-842-4695. Read more tips and best practices on the IT Security website.