This is a reminder that working remotely introduces additional security risks to our information systems, our sensitive information, and Marist College as a whole.  As many of us work remotely - be it for weather or health reasons – it is important to remember that cyber attackers will take advantage of any opportunity to steal money or information. 

Here are some common scams to watch out for: 

Solicitations for donations to fraudulent non-profits 
Automated phone calls that claim there is a problem with your Amazon or Apple account and you must speak to someone to resolve it 
Pop-ups on websites that say your computer has a virus and you must call a phone number for assistance 
Emails claiming to be from Marist employees that include links to websites that look like Marist but instead are setup to steal your login ID and password 
Fraudulent COVID vaccine websites 

Here are some safety tips you can take to keep you, your family, and Marist College from becoming the victim of one of these scams or other cyber-attacks: 

Maintain good password habits – Maintain a different password for each account you have.  Make sure to never divulge your passwords to anyone. 
Check the link before you click – Hover over a link before you click it.  You can see where it is sending you at the bottom of your browser.  If an email claims it is from Marist personnel but the link doesn’t go to a Marist service, report the email as suspicious. 
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) - Marist accounts are protected by MFA while off-campus.  You should also enroll all your personal accounts whenever it is offered, especially on online financial services. 
Avoid personal websites and personal email on your work computer – Use your Marist issued device for your work and a personal device for your banking, shopping, and social media. 
Don’t be afraid to verify – If you get a phone call, ask questions, including offering to hang up and call back on a verified, known phone number.  If an email looks like it is from someone you know, try picking up the phone to verify it came from them. 
Report all suspicious emails and activity – You should forward any suspicious email to phishing@marist.edu and an IT staff member will reply with guidance.  If your machine is acting differently, you have suspicious pop-ups, or believe you have fallen for any scam, contact the Marist IT Help Desk at 845-575-4357 (HELP) or helpdesk@marist.edu right away.