Information Technology Services Agency

Phishing/Malware Alert

Increase in phishing/malware emails

November 1, 2012 | 2 min reading time

This article is 12 years old. It was published on November 1, 2012.

 There has been an increase of phishing/malware emails that try to trick users into giving out their credentials or opening malware links.  Some of these emails look legitimate, but the email might actually contain:

  • a link that takes users to a website to enter in their account username and password
  • a link that takes users to a website to download malware that will infect their computers or phones
  • an attachment that has a link similar to the two items above or form to enter their username/password.
As a reminder, please be wary of all emails and verify that you know who and where the email is coming from.  Sophisticated phishing emails are being sent everyday to try and steal your data.  Some of these phishing emails might include a link to a zip file, word, PDF, or other official looking document that includes malicious software or asks for your credentials.  Do not click on any email links to open any attachments from unverified or unknown sources.  Most vendors will not be emailing you to ask about your credentials.  If there is any doubt, call your vendor to verify.

Here are a few phrases to look for if you think an email message is a phishing scam.

  • Verify your account.
  • You have won the lottery.
  • If you don't respond in 48 hours, your account will be closed.
  • Click the link below to gain access to your account.

ITSA
City of St. Louis 
  • Department:
    Information Technology Services Agency
  • Topic:
    Employees