Despite the rigorous security measures UCT has in place to detect suspicious emails, some emails that contain malicious software or viruses, still manage to get through. Recipients are then required to take some form of action in the email. They either need to click a link in the body of the email or open an attachment.
While UCT provides protection from viruses and other malicious code via the Trellix EndPoint Security desktop anti-malware and ensures that regular patches are released via the network to protect your PC, it cannot protect you from:
- Providing your information over the phone
- Completing an unsecured web form (phishing)
- Accessing malicious websites that harvest information/keystrokes from your computer
- Responding to false emails (phishing / spam)
When a malicious email (e.g. a phishing attempt) is reported and recognised, the UCT CSIRT will take all possible steps to minimise the risk to UCT staff and students. However, we cannot guarantee total protection against such messages - hence it is your responsibility to be cautious and protect yourself from falling victim to such messages.