“I clicked on the link in the email, which asked me to update my account details,” he says. “Before I knew it, hackers had my OneID password and other details.”

“Phishing is not only dangerous to organisations but also to individuals,” says Jeremy Koster, Information Security Manager at Macquarie University’s IT Department.

Phishing, in which a malicious communication attempts to obtain personal or sensitive information, is one of the most common cyber-attacks. Emails are often poorly worded, ask for a username and password, and provide a link that does not lead to an official website address like mq.edu.au.

“When criminals get access to valid usernames and passwords they may obtain access to confidential University information or even damage University systems,” says Jeremy.

He recommends taking the following steps when receiving a suspicious email:

• Immediately forward the email to help@mq.edu.au
• Do not click on any links or attachments
• Do not provide your OneID login details. Never share your password.
• If you have provided your login details, reset your password at the staff password portal and let the IT Service Desk know.

For more information, see the Information Security and Acceptable Use of IT Resources policies.

Stay tuned for more cyber security tips during 2017.

But travelling through isolated areas can present potential risks, and place us in a vulnerable position if confronted by a person or persons displaying disturbing behaviour.

Here are a few tips from Security to help keep you safe when walking through isolated or bushland areas:

• Don’t walk after dark.
• Carry a torch in case you are delayed and have to walk through the bush during twilight.
• Avoid walking alone. Walk in pairs or larger groups if you can.
• Don’t use personal audio devices which may cause you to miss a warning or not be as alert to your surroundings.
• Let someone know the time you have left and the time you expect to be at your destination.
• Ensure your mobile is charged and that you have an emergency call number programmed.
• Consider carrying a distress / duress alarm or siren to use in an emergency.
• Avoid suspicious characters. Turn and walk the other way if you can. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
• Don’t engage a person you are not familiar with or who makes you feel uncomfortable.
• Report suspicious activity or behaviour immediately to local police.

View Macquarie University Security for further information on personal safety.

Cops on Campus will be setting up a mobile van at a different location across the campus every week, to provide the NSW Police with a presence on our campus and the opportunity to become part of our Macquarie community.

Police officers from Ryde Police will be here to talk with students and staff.  They will be on hand to provide general safety awareness information, offer safety tips, listen to any concerns you might have and answer your questions.

Ongoing, the van will be on campus most Wednesdays between 12pm and 2pm at different locations.

Visit the Security website for more information.