The Information Security team have noted a new phishing scam involving fake password reset notification emails from organisations such as Amazon or other large organisations. In the email you may be encouraged to call a malicious telephone number with the intention of either charging premium tariffs, or to perpetrate other types of fraud.
What to do if you receive an unexpected email directing you to a phone number:
If you receive an email from Amazon or another organisation encouraging you to call a phone number, do not call. Report the email to the Information Security team, using the instructions at: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/staffnet/working-here/it-services/information-security/#panel42388
Always verify contact information contained in emails by visiting the official company website, especially if the email was unexpected or you are being pressured to reach out urgently. Do not click any links in the email to visit the company website.
If you phoned a number you now believe was suspicious, or to report any other suspicious activity/communications, please contact the Service Desk at
Using your University Account for personal use
We would like to remind all staff that linking your University email account to personal services such as banking services or online shopping is not permitted under the IT Conditions of Use. You can find the full policy here: IT Policies | IT Services | The University of Aberdeen
Mandatory Information Security Training:
We would also like to remind all students that the Getting Started at the Univeristy of Aberdeen course in MyAberdeen includes training on cyber security and scams. This is mandatory for all students to have completed. The training can be accessed through MyAberdeen.
The risk to the University IT systems and data as a result of evolving phishing scams remains high. Whilst the internal teams continuously monitor the situation and take appropriate action, it is critical that we all remain vigilant and report any suspicious emails or other forms of communications to the Directorate of Digital and Information Services via https://myit.abdn.ac.uk/