We would like to warn everyone to remain vigilant for scams related to COVID-19. Cyber criminals may send phishing emails with malicious attachments or links to fraudulent websites to trick victims into revealing sensitive information or donating to fraudulent charities or causes. Exercise caution in handling any email with a COVID-19-related subject line, attachment or hyperlink, and be wary of social media pleas, texts or calls related to COVID-19.

We encourage individuals to remain vigilant and take the following precautions:

• Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails and be wary of email attachments
• Use trusted sources—such as legitimate, government websites—for up-to-date, fact-based information about COVID-19
• Do not reveal personal or financial information in email, and do not respond to email solicitations for this information
• Verify a charity’s authenticity before making donations. Review the Federal Trade Commission’s page on Charity Scams for more information
• Continue to visit https://denison.edu/campus/covid19 for all university communications, as well as our current guidelines, policies, and prevention measures

The types of emails you may receive to get your attention to click a malicious link or open an attachment include:

• Fake school or CDC emails could make you think you or your child has been exposed to COVID-19 – they could say your family may face quarantine
• False claims that there’s a vaccine for sale or some form of remedy available
• Misleading ads about masks that may not be effective or other helpful hints to combat the virus
• Emails with “latest” updates to keep you informed, as criminals are aware that everyone wants to know everything first

If you feel you have received a phishing email please report it as phishing in Gmail. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the ITS Service Desk at 740-587-6395 or servicedesk@denison.edu