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IT Help Desk > Knowledge base> Article: How do I report suspicious emails, text messages or phone calls?

How do I report suspicious emails, text messages or phone calls?

Article ID: 138153 Print
Question
How do I report suspicious emails, text messages or phone calls?

Answer

How do I report suspicious emails, text messages or phone calls?

Tags spam  block  email  fake  phishnotify  text

Northwood University's IT uses Proofpoint and InfoSEC to protect your inbox, but some suspicious emails may still get through. If you receive one use a method below to report it:

  1. Using Outlook? Click the red fish button (PhishNotify) to report it — no need to contact IT
    • Using a different email app or a shared mailbox? Forward the message to fakeemail[AT]northwood[DOT]edu
  2. Then just wait — IT Security will take it from there

PhishNotify is the preferred way identify both phishing simulation emails from the IT Security team and real phishing emails. Using the red fish icon consistently for any questionable emails can help reduce the number of suspicious emails received by you and others in the Northwood community.

Fraudulent text messages are often unsolicited and may urge you to click a link or reply. To stay safe:

  1. Avoid replying to suspicious messages
  2. Don't open links from unknown numbers or unexpected texts
  3. Verify the message's legitimacy by contacting the sender through a verified phone number or website
  4. Report scams and fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) - you no longer need to contact the IT Help Desk
  5. Block the caller/sender using your phone's settings

    If you receive a suspicious call, whether from a computer or a person asking for personal information:

    1. Hang up immediately
    2. Do not follow any instructions from the caller
    3. Never disclose personal information
    4. Do not engage with the caller's prompts
    5. Report scams and fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) - you no longer need to contact the IT Help Desk
    6. Add your number to the FTC's Do Not Call Registry
    7. Block the caller using your phone's settings
      • iPhone/iPads - Avoid unwanted calls
      • Androids - Avoid unwanted calls
        • NOTE: Your approach might differ based on your phone's manufacturer. For precise instructions, please search online for your specific phone make and model

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    Article Details
    Views: 3 Created on: Oct 20, 2025
    Date updated: Oct 20, 2025
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