Review

August23Email

Why this looks valid

  • The email appears to be from a Vassar user, or a colleague from another institution.

Why this is a virus

  • The attachment is an arj file, a common way to send compressed files with viruses
  • There is not much information in the body of the email, including no specific salutation or greeting to the recipient.
  • Grammar errors, spelling errors, and generic salutations and sign-offs are usually indicative of a suspicious email.

Additional notes

  • A phone call to the alleged sender would quickly verify if this is a legitimate email. It only takes a few minutes to pick up the phone!
  • Report it as spam to Google. Before deleting the message, make sure to click on “report spam”.
  • A little paranoia goes a long way! Be suspicious of any email messages similar to this one. Unsolicited attachments in email are currently a popular way to spread malware and viruses.