vishaak met rood poppetje ernaast
vishaak met rood poppetje ernaast

Increase in phishing activities

During the winter months, there is always an increase in phishing activity. Security colleagues have observed that criminals are starting their “fishing” activities early this year.

Phishing attempts are becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish from “real” messages, partly due to the use of AI. The university's phishing filter blocks a large proportion of phishing emails, but it remains important to remain cautious before clicking on a link or opening an unusual file.

There are several ways to recognise a phishing message. It is also important to report any (potential) attempts or accidental clicks. By reporting them, you enable our experts to prevent damage and help us keep the university digitally secure.

There are several warning signs to look out for:

  • You receive an “unexpected” message
    First check whether you see anything strange and only click on a link or attachment if you are sure that everything is correct.
  • Impersonal salutation 
    Dear, Dear Sir/Madam, ...
  • Urgency
    Can you arrange something for me quickly? Respond quickly ...
  • Strange or incomplete sender
    Radboud, manager, rnicrosoft (note the first two letters), ...
  • The link refers to a different site than the email suggests
    You can check a link at www.checkjelinkje.nl

If you are unsure about a message, contact the sender by another means.

If you would like more tips and practical examples, follow a fastclass in early December. 

Reporting

There are various ways to report phishing attempts. 

phishing report button outlook
  • Report button in Outlook
    Have you received a strange message? Use the report button (see image).
  • Report to the icthelpdesk [at] ru.nl (ICT Helpdesk)
    Send the email as an attachment. Then delete the message. Press the Shift and Delete keys simultaneously to permanently delete the email. 

Private devices

Ensure that you install security updates and use a virus scanner. You can use F-secure free of charge via the university. Tip: F-secure also works on your phone.

Have you been the victim of phishing on a private device that does not contain any university data? Have a virus scanner check your laptop/telephone and follow the instructions.

Contact information

Contact the ICT Helpdesk via:
Email: icthelpdesk [at] ru.nl (icthelpdesk[at]ru[dot]nl)
Phone: 024 362 22 22 

Want to know more about working securely? Contact IB-Awareness [at] ru.nl (IB-Awareness) 

Organizational unit
Information & Library Services