Spam/Spoof E-Mail

Spam E-Mail

Spam e-mail is -email that has been sent in bulk to recipients who have not given permission for the message to be sent to them.  It is also known as Unsolicited Bulk E-mail (UBE).  Spam e-mail is typically for commercial purposes, aiming to try and sell you a particular product or service.  It also tends to include a false ‘FROM’ address that conceals the source of the e-mail making it difficult to identify the sender.  

Spoof E-Mail (Phishing) 

Phishing is the name given to the practice of sending e-mails that fake the appearance of a genuine web site or company in an attempt to commit identity theft.  The e-mails attempt to trick the recipient into replying to the email with personal information such as user ID and passwords, banking details or credit card numbers.  Although the e-mail looks genuine it will in fact be linked to a fraudster’s website who steals your details.

Please note: ISA will NEVER ask you to provide personal details via email.  If you receive an e-mail that looks like it has come from the University requesting personal details this is a spoof email.

What do I do if I receive spam/spoof e-mail?

If you think you have received a spam or spoof e-mail we recommends that you delete it. This action is simple and fast.  DO NOT REPLY to the e-mail or reply to any "remove" addresses or web pages as it only demonstrates that your account is live and is likely to result in more spam.

If you receive a spoof email claiming to be from the University inform the ISA Helpdesk immediately.