How to Identify and Report Phishing at UofL

Before You Begin

Ensure you have a valid UofL user account and login credentials.
Review Information Security Policies and Procedures for phishing awareness.
Familiarize yourself with common phishing tactics and warning signs.

Objective or Task

Learn how to identify, avoid and report phishing attempts for secure computing at UofL.

Instructions

Identify Phishing Emails

  • Look for suspicious sender addresses, urgent requests, misspellings and unexpected attachments or links.
  • Hover over links to check their destination before clicking.
  • Be wary of emails asking for personal information, passwords or financial details.

Avoid Phishing Scams

  • Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown or suspicious emails.
  • Never provide your UofL credentials or sensitive information in response to unsolicited requests.
  • Use ITS-approved email security tools and keep your software up to date.

Report Phishing Incidents

  • If you receive a suspected phishing email, use the “Report Phishing” button in Outlook if available. 
  • If you clicked on links or opened an attachment, report the incident to the ITS HelpDesk or forward the email to secureit@louisville.edu.
  • For urgent threats, call the ITS HelpDesk directly.

Respond to Phishing Simulations

  • UofL conducts phishing simulation campaigns to train users.
  • If you receive a simulation, follow instructions and complete any required training.

Follow University Policies

  • Do not share your account or credentials.
  • Violations may result in account suspension and further investigation.

Outcome

After completing these steps, you will be able to identify, avoid and report phishing attempts, helping protect UofL’s data and systems.

Further Readings

Need Additional Help

• Contact the ITS HelpDesk: Call 502-852-7997 during business hours:

o Monday through Thursday: 6:00am – 10:00pm
o Friday: 6:00am – 5:00pm
o Saturday: 7:00am – 5:00pm
o Sunday: 10:00am – 10:00pm
o University Holidays: 7:00am – 5:00pm
o Closed on Thanksgiving, the day after Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
o If you have an emergency during off hours, call the HelpDesk to be transferred to an on-call technician, or leave your request on voicemail. Your call will be returned the next day starting at 7am unless you specify a time.

• Live Chat: Chat with the ITS HelpDesk at https://apps.louisville.edu/it/livechat/phplive.php during business hours.

• Submit a Ticket: Use the self-service portal at http://service.louisville.edu to log requests or check the status of existing tickets.

• In-Person Support: Visit the iTechConnect 1:1 help located on the lower level of the Miller Information Technology Center, Belknap Campus, during business hours.

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