Computing & Information Technology – C&IT

The C&IT Help Desk is getting many reports from Wayne State students, faculty, and staff about an e-mail message that looks like it comes from "Wayne Webmail support" or the "Wayne messaging center" and asks the recipient to forward his or her e-mail password and other personal information.

These e-mail messages are "spear phishing" attempts: e-mail messages that are sent to employees of a company or organization and appear genuine, because they look like they come from the group that manages computer systems, for example. These messages are meant to trick you into sending a password, user name, or account number, so the sender can gain access to the company or organization's entire computer system.

What to do if you receive a "spear phishing" e-mail:

• Never reply to an e-mail message requesting a password, user name, account number, or personal/financial information — no matter how legitimate the message may seem or who appears to have sent it. Be assured that Wayne State University will never ask you to e-mail your computer account password or other personal information.
• Delete the message. Viewing it typically does not harm your computer; the damage comes from replying and providing a stranger with your personal information.
• If you did reply to the phishing message, or you have a question about the legitimacy of any e-mail message, call the C&IT Help Desk at (313) 577-4778, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. or send an e-mail to helpdesk@wayne.edu.

It's in your best interest to spend some time on C&IT's e-mail phishing Web page. Learn what to look out for and ways to protect yourself. Test your phishing skills and find out what to do if you've been scammed. You can avoid spear phishing attempts by following the same safe computing practices used against phishing attacks.

Computing questions? C&IT has the answers!

On the Web, over the phone, through e-mail, or by appointment, C&IT has answers to many computing questions. Need help with your current and future computing and networking needs? Visit our questions and answers Web page.

More computing or technology-related services, resources, and programs

• IT-related policies and procedures
• Software Clearinghouse – discounted software for students and employees
• Computing services, resources, and programs around WSU
• WSU technology initiatives
• The Glance – Michigan's common technology calendar