HU Network Protection Update

Dear Howard University Community,

This message is to inform you that the Cyber Security team at HU will be enabling the Phishing button feature on the Outlook Desktop Application for all user accounts moving forward.  This security measure will be implemented to enhance the protection of valuable data and resources against the ever-increasing threat of cyber-attacks.

What is Phishing?

• Phishing is the fraudulent practice of sending emails or other messages purporting to be from reputable companies in order to induce individuals to reveal personal information.  Phishing attacks can be highly sophisticated and difficult to detect.  Furthermore, they can have serious consequences, such as identity theft, financial loss, or unauthorized access to sensitive information.

How can I protect myself against Phishing attacks?

• It's important to be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
• Verify the authenticity of emails or messages before responding to them.
• Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication.

How will I be impacted by the Phishing button feature?

• The Phishing alert button allows you to report a potential Phishing email attack via your Outlook Desktop Application.  Utilizing the Phishing button to report a Phishing email will empower the HU Cyber Security team to review the email and take immediate action to mitigate the potential Phishing attack.

How do I utilize the Phishing button feature?

• Open the Outlook Desktop app, it's okay to use the New Outlook feature if available (figure 1)
• Click on the email you want to report as phishing.
• Then click the Report button (figure 2), located on the ribbon
• If using New Outlook you will see a pop-up window, thanking you for reporting (figure 3), click Ok 
• If using Classic Outlook the pop-up window (figure 4), check “Don’t show me this message again”, then click Report
• You will only have to do this once.

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4