How to - Identify SPAM/Ransomware or non-trustworthy emails
04.06.2021
Email and email attachments can sometimes contain computer viruses or links to phishing websites. See the Viruses and Anti-Viruses article for more information.
Steps to identify and manage suspicious email:
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Install an antivirus program that can scan email attachments. Make sure the program is updated regularly.
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Check the sender's address to make sure that you know the person or organization that sent the message, and that you're familiar with the address. A message from an unknown sender or address isn't necessarily dangerous, but you should be cautious before opening it.
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Check the subject line of the message for suspicious language, such as gibberish or directions to open an attachment or click a link. Some viruses can mimic, or spoof, legitimate email addresses, and a suspicious subject line can sometimes alert you that an email message is fraudulent.
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Without clicking on a link or image, carefully 'hover' the cursor over it to identify the website that will open. If it doesn't look correct....don't try it.
- If the message has an attachment, scan it with an antivirus program. If the attachment contains an executable file that you weren't expecting to receive, you might want to delete the message without opening the attachment.
- If the message is from a person you know, but you either weren't expecting it or suspect it might be fraudulent, then send a new email message to that person to verify that the message is legitimate.
Examples:
Here is an example of an address 'behind' an image or link that is not pointing to what you would expect .
Place the mouse cursor over the below image/link to see examples of where an image or link will lead to (these are not harmfull)
or Australia Post or pay your AGL bill online
To report or learn about online or email scams, visit the www.scamwatch.gov.au website or 'be cybersmart' articles.
How well can you spot a phishing email? Take the test here (NOTE: you do not need to use a real name or email address).
If you believe your account may be compromised, please see or contact the TWC ICT Department. You can log a support ticket through the TWC Portal Page. (See Page).
See other articles on the TWC Portal Page below: