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Avoiding Phishing Email Scams
If you receive any email containing a web link or requesting information, the first thing you should do is check the from: address. If the person claims to be from QPS and their email ends in anything but “@qps.org” they are almost certainly a scammer!
More info taken from FTC.gov:
Phishing emails and text messages may look like they’re from a company you know or trust. They may look like they’re from a bank, a credit card company, a social networking site, an online payment website or app, or an online store.
Phishing emails and text messages often tell a story to trick you into clicking on a link or opening an attachment. They may
- say they’ve noticed some suspicious activity or log-in attempts
- claim there’s a problem with your account or your payment information
- say you must confirm some personal information
- include a fake invoice
- want you to click on a link to make a payment
- say you’re eligible to register for a government refund
- offer a coupon for free stuff
What To Do If You Receive a Suspicious Email
- Do not click links or open attachments.
- Report the message using the Report button in Outlook.
- Select the suspicious message
- Choose Report from the menu
- Select Report phishing (or Report Junk)
- Delete the email after reporting.
Reporting suspicious emails helps improve filtering and protects others in the district. Reporting is encouraged—even if you are unsure.
If You Clicked a Link or Entered Information
If you interacted with a suspicious message:
- Report the email in Outlook immediately
- Do not approve unexpected sign‑in or multi‑factor authentication prompts
- Contact the Technology Department if you are unsure what to do next
Quick reporting helps limit potential risk. [cisa.gov]
Helpful Resources
These trusted resources provide clear, up‑to‑date guidance on phishing and online safety:
- CISA – Recognize and Report Phishing
https://www.cisa.gov/secure-our-world/recognize-and-report-phishing - CISA / NSA / FBI – Phishing Guidance (Stopping the Attack Cycle)
https://www.cisa.gov/resources-tools/resources/phishing-guidance-stopping-attack-cycle-phase-one - Federal Trade Commission – How to Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams
https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-avoid-phishing-scams - Microsoft – Reporting Phishing in Outlook
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/defender-office-365/submissions-outlook-report-messages - FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
https://www.ic3.gov/
(For reporting actual cybercrime or fraud incidents)
