Recover from a Phishing Scam

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Last updated: Aug 10, 2022 by Joshua StoneVersion comment

We realize that phishing scams are getting more focused and more difficult to identify. While prevention and training are a great step, you may fall for the deceptive tricks of the trade from time to time. This information is designed to establish a protocol for those who might fall victim to such scams.

We realize this may be a scary time. If there is anything else we can do to assist you after following the steps below, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Step-by-step guide

  1. First, immediately change your password or passwords through the Account Management System.
  2. Log in to your Valpo Gmail account to check several settings.
    1. Settings -> Forwarding and POP/IMAP: Make sure your email isn't being forwarded to any other accounts. If there are entries here you don't recognize, remove them ASAP.
    2. Settings -> Accounts: Make sure no unwanted accounts have been granted access to your account. Delete any entries here you don't recognize or haven't entered yourself.
    3. Settings -> Filters and Blocked Addresses: Make sure no other filters have been added to your account. Delete any that you haven't personally setup.
  3. Make sure your personal computer has an anti-virus or anti-malware program on it. We have a related article that can help you. Be sure that this program updates and scans your machine regularly. Also, be sure that you only have one running on your machine at a time. Two or more can contradict each other and open your machine up to vulnerabilities.
  4. Change your password for other accounts using the same password.
  5. If you have fallen victim to the phishing scam and entered any personal information such as your social security number, please visit https://www.identitytheft.gov/ and follow the steps outlined there.


Still need help?

For additional assistance, contact the IT Help Desk.