Phishing Scams

Red Flags: Anatomy of a Fraudulent Email

Before you reply to any unsolicited job offer, check for these signs:

  1. Check the "From" Address
    SCAM: [email protected] or [email protected] REAL: [email protected]
    Tip: Scammers can spoof the Display Name to look like "Prof. John Smith," but they cannot easily fake the actual email address inside the < > brackets.
  2. The "Too Good to Be True" Pay
    SCAM: "$400 weekly for 3-5 hours of remote work." REAL: Student jobs typically pay an hourly wage consistent with campus standards, not a flat weekly "allowance" for vague work.
  3. Urgent or Secretive Requests
    SCAM: "I am currently traveling/in a meeting and cannot talk on the phone. Text me immediately." REAL: Professors and hiring managers will want to interview you (video or in-person) before hiring. They will not hire you solely via text message.
  4. Requests for Money or Gift Cards
    SCAM: "I will send you a check. You need to deposit it and use the funds to buy gift cards/supplies for the department." REAL: No legitimate employer will ever ask you to deposit a check and send money back. This is the hallmark of a "check kiting" scheme.

How to Verify a Suspicious Email

If you receive a job offer that seems slightly "off," do not reply. Follow these steps:

  1. Do not use the contact info in the email. Scammers put their own phone numbers in the signature line.
  2. Use the UVU Directory. Go to the UVU Directory and search for the professor's name.
  3. Email them legitimately. Send a new email to their official @uvu.edu address found in the directory, or via Canvas messaging or Teams.

What to Do If You Spot a Scam

If you received the email but did not click on anything:

  1. Report it: Forward the email immediately to [email protected].
  2. Delete it: Do not reply or click any links.

If you replied or clicked a link:

  1. Change your password: Immediately change your UVU password and any other accounts that share that password.
  2. Contact the Service Desk: Call (801) 863-8888 or email [email protected]. Let them know you may have compromised your account, so they can watch for suspicious activity.

If you sent money or personal info:

  1. Call your bank: If you deposited a check or shared banking info, alert your bank immediately. Tell them you are a victim of fraud.
  2. Call the Police: If you lost money, file a police report with the UVU Police (if on campus) or your local department.
    • UVU Police Non-Emergency: (801) 863-5555
  3. Stop contact: Block the scammer's phone number and email addresses.

Security Contact Information

Who can I contact if I have Questions?

The UVU Service Desk is available at (801) 863-8888 to help answer questions and can get you in touch with a member of the UVU Security team. You can also email [email protected] if you have any questions or need help.