Archive of Alerts - Coastal Carolina University

Information Security

Archive of Technology and Security Alerts

May 8, 2023, and older

_{May 8, 2023: TikTok Notice »
April 13, 2023: Fraudulent Text and Email Alert! »
Feb. 23, 2023: Campus Wireless Upgrade »
Dec. 9, 2022: Notice of Eduroam Wi-Fi Annual Certificate Renewal: Dec. 16, 2022 »
Dec. 5, 2022: CCU Security Reminders - Do Not Share Your CCU Log In Info »
Nov. 4, 2022: Fraudulent Email Alert »
Aug. 31, 2022: Fraudulent Email Alert »
May 20, 2022: Former Student Account Deletion Notice Sent »
May 19, 2022: Microsoft retires the Internet Explorer 11 browser on June 15, 2022 »
Feb. 8, 2022: Major internet outage in the upstate - CCU not affected »
Jan. 7, 2022: Reminder for all eduroam WiFi users on the Main Campus »
Jan. 6. 2022: Reminder - Fraudulent Emails, Texts related to COVID-19 »
Dec. 17, 2021: Smishing Threats »
Dec. 15, 2021: Eduroam Wi-Fi Service Certificate Renewal – Action Required »
Aug. 31, 2021: Changes in Microsoft Apps for iOS 13 in October 2021 »
Aug. 17, 2021: Segra Network Connectivity Issues »
Aug. 9 & 16, 2021: Accessing CCU Wireless - Eduroam Reminder »
July 15, 2021: HTC Cable TV Service on Monday, July 19 »
April 2, 2021: Fraudulent Alert - IRS Impersonation Scam »
Feb. 15, 2021: Last Notice - Connect to eduroam »
Feb. 1, 2021: Fraudulent Email Alert »
Jan. 26, 2021: eduroam Wireless Access Update - Android Issues Resolved »
Jan. 20, 2021: Fraudulent Email Alert »
Jan. 20, 2021: eduroam Wireless Updates »
Dec. 18, 2020: eduroam wireless now available »
Sept. 29, 2020: Microsoft authentication issues resolved »
Sept. 28, 2020: Microsoft authentication issues »
Sept. 28, 2020: Email Update from EVERFI »
Sept. 24, 2020: View Notice of Microsoft Upgrade available to Instructional Faculty and Staff »
Sept. 23, 2020: View Notice for iPhone and iPad Users: iOS 14 Update »
June 2020 and older alerts »}

TikTok Notice

During the Coastal Carolina University board of trustees meeting on May 4, 2023, “it was announced that the University will block access to TikTok on CCU’s wired and Wi-Fi networks campuswide. The move is designed to keep the University’s network safe and secure and takes into consideration the safety and privacy of CCU’s students, faculty, and staff. It also complies with Gov. Henry McMaster’s directive to all state agencies to block access to this social media platform.”

TikTok is now blocked from CCU wired and Wi-Fi networks campuswide effective immediately. Users may still access TikTok from their own personal devices using a mobile data connection (turn off Wi-Fi).

^{Emailed May 8, 2023}
^{Back to the top}

Fraudulent Text and Email Alert

Notice of Recent Fraudulent Messages: Do not respond to phishing texts or emails. Keep your information and account secure – please disregard suspicious messages.

CCU’s Office of Information Technology Services reminds students, faculty and staff to be aware of fraudulent text and email messages. Be suspicious of any unsolicited texts or email and attempt to verify that it is from a trusted source.

We urge all students to avoid opening suspicious and unsolicited texts or emails, downloading unknown attachments, or accessing documents that they did not request or anticipate receiving. Please do not provide your information to an unknown sender. CCU will never tell you that we are shutting down your email by text or in an email and request your personal information or verification codes. CCU will never ask you for your email verification codes. CCU does not send job offer solicitations through text or email either.

Please take the time to closely examine any unsolicited texts and emails as they likely include various signs of a scam. If you receive a text or email that you did not anticipate receiving or suspect is fraudulent, please delete it immediately. If necessary, check with ITS at 843-349-5000 (faculty and staff) or ITS-Student Computing Services (SCS) at 843-349-2220 (students) to verify and/or report fraudulent texts or emails.

^{Posted April 13, 2023}
^{Back to the top}

Campus Wireless Upgrade

CCU recognizes that every year, faculty, staff, and students are bringing more devices to campus. The extra devices are vying for access to the campus wireless network. CCU’s administration supports taking strategic steps toward wireless infrastructure improvements. ITS is excited to receive support and funding from the administration to perform a campuswide wireless upgrade.

View the Implementation Schedule* here »

*The implementation schedule is subject to change. During the upgrade, users in the area who are using their wireless connection may experience a 20-60 second interruption.

^{Posted Feb. 23, 2023}
^{Back to the top}

Notice of Eduroam Wi-Fi Annual Certificate Renewal: Dec. 16, 2022

CCU’s eduroam wireless service uses a digital certificate (safeconnect.coastal.edu) for secure user authentication. The digital certificate is renewed annually. ITS renewed the certificate on Friday, Dec. 16, 2022, at 7 a.m.

Action may be required to ensure you maintain a successful wireless connection on the main campus:

Link to Annual Notice and Recommended Actions »

^{Sent via Email/Posted Dec. 9 & 15, 2022, and Jan. 6 & 13, 2023}
^{Back to the top}

CCU Security Reminders - Do Not Share Your CCU Log In Info

Coastal Carolina University’s Information Technology Services (or any other CCU office) will never ask you for your CCU password or send you a form to fill out to send your password or other sensitive information. ITS will never ask you to verify your CCU account by sharing your password.

Do not share your CCU username and password with anyone. If you have sent your CCU password to anyone or if you have completed an online form that requested your password and other information, such as all the colleges and universities you have attended, contact SCS/ITS or reset your password as soon as possible using the CCU password reset page below.

https://password.coastal.edu

Students:
ITS-Student Computing Services
Call 843-349-2220
Text 843-733-7234
Online Service Request

Faculty and Staff:
ITS Service Center
843-349-5000
Online Service Request

^{Posted Dec. 5, 2022}
^{Back to the top}

Fraudulent Email Alert

CCU’s Office of Information Technology Services reminds students, faculty and staff to be aware of fraudulent email messages. Be suspicious of any unsolicited email and attempt to verify that it is from a trusted source. Do not open emails, download attachments, or access links or documents that you did not request to receive or anticipate. Please do not provide your information to an unknown sender.

Please take the time to closely examine any unsolicited emails as they likely include various signs of a scam. If you receive an email that you suspect is fraudulent, please delete the email immediately. If necessary, check with ITS at 843-349-5000 (faculty and staff) or ITS-Student Computing Services (SCS) at 843-349-2220 (students) to verify and/or report fraudulent emails.

_{Posted Aug. 31, 2022, and Nov. 4, 2022}
_{Back to the top}

Former Student Account Deletion Notice Sent

Former CCU students are not eligible for CCU account services. On May 20, 2022, these users were sent an email notice for account deletion in 30 days. After the 30-day period, the former CCU account is deleted. Once an account is deleted, the information, emails, and files that were in the account cannot be restored.

Only current students can use CCU account services. A current student is a student who is currently enrolled and registered for classes at CCU. CCU account services include the use of a CCU account, Office 365 Outlook email, and other Microsoft Office 365 application services.

_{Posted May 20, 2022}
_{Back to the top}

Microsoft retires the Internet Explorer 11 browser on June 15, 2022

Starting June 15, 2022, the Internet Explorer 11 desktop application/browser will be retired and no longer supported on Windows 10 operating systems.

Some sites or applications are only built to work with Internet Explorer and have functionality that is not yet supported by modern browsers such as Microsoft Edge. So, if you need to view one of these sites or applications, you can use Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge. IE mode in Microsoft Edge enables backward compatibility and will be supported through at least 2029. Additionally, Microsoft will provide notice one year before retiring IE mode.

Most sites work better on modern browsers. For better speed and security, we recommend only using Internet Explorer mode when necessary. For more information, see learn more about Microsoft Edge.

_{Posted May 19, 2022}
_{Back to the top}

Major Internet Outage in the Upstate - CCU not affected

CCU is not experiencing telephone or internet outage issues. However, ITS would like to bring to your attention some issues that Greenville, SC is experiencing. Currently, there is a major fiber optic line cut in this area as referenced in the article below. Please note that this issue could affect communication traveling to and from that area of the state.

Greenville County Schools District Internet Outage Monday

_{Posted Feb. 8, 2022
Back to the top}

Reminder for all eduroam WiFi users on the Main Campus

For returning students, faculty, and staff

CCU’s eduroam wireless service uses a digital certificate (safeconnect.coastal.edu) for secure user authentication. This certificate renews every year and was recently renewed on Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021.

Your device may prompt you to accept the new wireless certificate to safeconnect.coastal.edu. The process for verifying and accepting the new certificate varies by device and the operating system installed on the device. ITS and SCS are available if you have questions about the validity of the certificate or how to accept it successfully on your device(s).

What does this prompt mean? Should I accept it? You should always understand what a prompt on your devices is asking you to do before accepting. In this case, by accepting the certificate, you are renewing part of the credentials that keep you secure and connected to eduroam.

If you receive a prompt on your connected devices asking you to verify and accept the safeconnect.coastal.edu certificate for eduroam wireless, please verify and accept the certificate to continue a secure connection to the internet at CCU.

If your device does not prompt you to accept the new certificate and is no longer connected to eduroam wireless, please forget and re-connect to eduroam on your device. Visit the eduroam support sites for Students or Faculty and Staff to reconnect to eduroam, if needed.

For new students, faculty, and staff

eduroam is the wireless signal available for all students, faculty, and staff at CCU on the main campus. Visit the eduroam support sites for Students or Faculty and Staff for instructions on how to connect to eduroam WiFi on the main campus and support information.

For support or help, faculty and staff can contact ITS by calling 843-349-5000 or accessing the ITS Online Service Center and students should contact Student Computing Services by calling 843-349-2220, texting 843-733-7234, or submitting an SCS Online Help Request.

_{Posted Jan. 7, 2022
Back to the top}

Reminder - Fraudulent Emails and Texts related to COVID-19

COVID-19 and its associated variants (Delta, Omicron, etc.) are topics that are heavily used by bad actors in phishing emails. If a user opens phishing email attachments, the attachment may distribute malware and cause security issues for the user and CCU.

Be suspicious of any unsolicited email and texts and attempt to verify that it is from a trusted source. Please take the time to closely examine any unsolicited messages as they likely include various signs of a scam. If you receive an email or text that you suspect is fraudulent, please delete the message immediately. If necessary, check with ITS at 843-349-5000 (faculty and staff) or ITS-Student Computing Services (SCS) at 843-349-2220 (students) to verify and/or report fraudulent messages.

_{Posted Jan. 6, 2022
Back to the top}

Smishing Threats

CCU’s Office of Information Technology Services reminds students, faculty, and staff to be aware of fraudulent email and text messages. Be suspicious of any unsolicited email and texts and attempt to verify that it is from a trusted source. There has been an increase in phishing through text messages (smishing), where a bad actor asks the recipient to buy gift cards for them.

Please take the time to closely examine any unsolicited messages as they likely include various signs of a scam. If you receive an email or text that you suspect is fraudulent, please delete the message immediately. If necessary, check with ITS at 843-349-5000 (faculty and staff) or ITS-Student Computing Services (SCS) at 843-349-2220 (students) to verify and/or report fraudulent messages.

_{Posted Dec. 17, 2021
Back to the top}

Eduroam Wi-Fi Service Certificate Renewal – Action Required

CCU’s eduroam wireless service uses a digital certificate (safeconnect.coastal.edu) for secure user authentication. This certificate renews every year. ITS will renew the certificate on Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021.

What does this prompt mean? Should I accept it?

You should always understand what a prompt on your devices is asking you to do before accepting. In this case, by accepting the certificate, you are renewing part of the credentials that keep you secure and connected to eduroam.

If your device does not prompt you to accept the new certificate and is no longer connected to eduroam wireless, please forget and re-connect to eduroam on your device according to the eduroam resources provided below.

Eduroam Resources

For instructions on how to connect to eduroam at CCU, visit the eduroam support sites for Students or Faculty/Staff.

_{Posted Dec. 15, 2021
Back to the top}

Changes in Microsoft Apps for iOS 13 in October 2021

Microsoft will update the minimum system requirements for Outlook and Teams for iOS app from iOS 13 to iOS 14 beginning in October 2021. If you currently use these apps on an iOS 13 device, please consider upgrading the operating system to at least iOS 14 to continue to use the applications successfully. This change does not affect anyone using Outlook and Teams for iOS apps on iOS 14 or above or using these applications on desktop computers.

If you have questions or need assistance, please contact ITS for Faculty and staff: call 843-349-5000, access the ITS Online Service Center; and Student Computing Services for students: call 843-349-2220, text 843-733-7234, or submit a SCS Online Help Request.

^{Posted Aug. 31, 2021
Back to the top}

Segra Network Connectivity Issues at CCU

Visit the Systems Status page and/or click Segra Network Connectivity Issues to access this issue's incident report and associated updates.

^{Posted Aug. 17, 2021
Back to the top}

Accessing CCU Wireless - Eduroam Reminder

ITS reminds all CCU faculty and staff to successfully connect WiFi devices to the eduroam wireless network when on main campus with your full CCU email address (e.g. yourusername@coastal.edu) and your current CCU password. ITS sends separate reminders to CCU students.

When a CCU user updates their CCU password, they must forget/remove the eduroam network from their WiFi device(s) and then, reconnect with their full CCU email address and the new CCU password using the instructions provided in the Next Steps section below.

Next Steps

If you have updated your CCU password, on your computer or mobile device, forget the eduroam wireless network. To do this, access your network or Wi-Fi settings on your device, select the eduroam network and choose “forget.” Then, follow the instructions provided to connect to eduroam.
All users* may visit the ITS website for eduroam to access the instructions to connect to eduroam wireless, and for more information, including eduroam participating eduroam institutions worldwide. *Special instructions are noted for Android device users.
Android users should use the following Android Device Instructions to connect to eduroam (also accessible on the ITS website for eduroam above).
As previously stated, anytime you change your CCU password in the future, users should follow the same instructions to reconnect to eduroam again to ensure a successful wireless connection.

If you have questions, please contact ITS for Faculty and staff: call 843-349-5000, access the ITS Online Service Center; and Student Computing Services for students: call 843-349-2220, text 843-733-7234, or submit a SCS Online Help Request.

^{Posted Aug. 9 & 16, 2021
Back to the top}

HTC Cable TV Service on Monday, July 19

In an effort to reduce CCU's expenditure for cable TV service, ITS is working with HTC to identify and disconnect cable TV service on campus for locations where the service is not in use. We have identified areas that are being billed but are not active.

HTC will be on-site Monday July 19, 2021, to begin the disconnection process for the unused cable TV service locations.

During this process, it is possible to lose cable TV service in locations where the service is active. If you lose service in your area where it is needed, please contact Abigail Marrero (ext. 4064) to report the disconnection location, and HTC will reactivate that location with new wiring.

^{Posted July 15, 2021
Back to the top}

Fraudulent Alert - IRS Impersonation Scam

CCU’s Office of Information Technology Services reminds students, faculty and staff to be aware of fraudulent emails and scams, such as impersonation email scams that claim to be the IRS. Recently, the IRS published a warning for university students and staff of an impersonation email scam. Please review the important IRS warning here so that you are aware of this ongoing phishing scam impersonating the IRS. The following are some of the key messages from the article referenced.

“People who receive this scam email should not click on the link in the email, but they can report it to the IRS. For security reasons, save the email using "save as" and then send that attachment to phishing@irs.gov or forward the email as an attachment to phishing@irs.gov.”

“Taxpayers who believe they may have provided identity thieves with this information should consider immediately obtaining an Identity Protection PIN. This is a voluntary opt-in program. An IP PIN is a six-digit number that helps prevent identity thieves from filing fraudulent tax returns in the victim's name.”

Be suspicious of any unsolicited email and attempt to verify that it is from a trusted source. Please take the time to closely examine any unsolicited emails as they likely include various signs of a scam. If you receive an email that you suspect is fraudulent, please delete the email immediately. If necessary, check with ITS at 843-349-5000 (faculty and staff) or ITS-Student Computing Services (SCS) at 843-349-2220 (students) to verify and/or report fraudulent emails.

_{Posted April 2, 2021
Back to the top}

Last Notice - Connect to eduroam

On Feb. 15, 2021, ITS sent an email (the last notice) to all CCU students, faculty and staff to connect any Wi-Fi devices to the eduroam wireless network. Use the instructions provided in the Next Steps section of the email. Special instructions are noted for Android device users. The previous wireless network, called CCUnwired is now replaced with eduroam. The CCUnwired wireless network is officially retired and no longer available for wireless as of 5 p.m. on Feb. 15, 2021.

Access to CCUResNet in University Housing locations will not change.

All users may visit the ITS website for to access the instructions to connect to eduroam wireless access and for more information, including eduroam participating eduroam institutions worldwide.
Also provided on the eduroam website, Android users should use the following Android Device Instructions »
When you change your password, you will need to follow the appropriate instructions related to your device to connect to eduroam again.

If you have questions, please contact ITS for Faculty and staff: 843-349-5000, ITS Online Service Center; and Student Computing Services for students and alumni: 843-349-2220, SCS Online Help Request.

_{Posted Feb. 15, 2021
Back to the top}

Fraudulent Email Alert

CCU’s Office of Information Technology Services reminds students, faculty and staff to be aware of fraudulent email messages. Recently, a spam email began circulating from an internal email account asking recipients to click on a link to receive a benefit. This email was sent from an internal email account, however it is not a legitimate message. Please do not click on the link.

Below is a recent example of one of these fraudulent email messages.

______________________________________________

From: ******** (*********)
Date: Monday, February 1, 2021 5:05 AM
To: *********
Subject: Re: Administration portal

Hello,

Your email was randomly selected as a beneficiary to receive COVID-19 Response & Impact Fund. To receive the Relief Fund

CLICK HERE

Thank you,

***********

Administration portal

Coastal Carolina University

______________________________________________

_{Posted Feb. 1, 2021
Back to the top}

eduroam Wireless Access Update - Android Issues Resolved

The previously reported issues between Android 11 and eduroam is now resolved. Please take the necessary steps to connect to eduroam now.

The previous wireless network, called CCUnwired will be replaced with eduroam. To allow for a smooth transition for the CCU community, the CCUnwired wireless network will remain available until Feb. 15, 2021.

Access to CCUResNet in University Housing locations will not change.

ITS website for eduroam

_{Posted Jan. 26, 2021
Back to the top}

Fraudulent Email Alert

CCU’s Office of Information Technology Services reminds students, faculty and staff to be aware of fraudulent email messages. Recently, a spam email was circulating from an external email account posing as Dr. Michael T. Benson asking recipients to provide a cell phone number. This email was sent from an external email account. Do not respond to this message.

Below is a recent example of one of these fraudulent email messages.
______________________________________________

From: Michael T. Benson (*********@gmail.com)
Date: Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at 5:49 PM
To: *********
Subject: Quick Response

CAUTION: This email originated from outside your organization. Exercise caution when opening attachments or clicking links, especially from unknown senders.

Available? Cell phone number?
______________________________________________

_{Posted Jan. 20, 2021
Back to the top}

eduroam Wireless Update

eduroam Update: Recent security updates to Android 11 may interrupt a successful eduroam wireless connection on campus. If you have an Android device and installed the latest security updates, you may need to delay connecting to eduroam and maintain use of CCUnwired as your wireless connection on campus. ITS is reviewing solutions to implement that will reduce the possibility of connectivity issues.

eduroam is available for all other devices on campus. The retirement date for CCUnwired is delayed. ITS will keep the CCU community updated.

Note: Access to CCUResNet in University Housing will not change.

ITS website for eduroam

_{Posted Jan. 20, 2021
Back to the top}

eduroam wireless is now available on CCU's main campus

Beginning December 18, 2020, eduroam is the wireless signal available for all students, faculty, and staff at CCU. It's a secure, world-wide roaming access service for the international research and educational community. Additionally, visitors from other eduroam participating campuses can easily access this signal using the same credentials they use at the institution they are currently attending.

ITS website for eduroam

_{Posted Dec. 18, 2020
Back to the top}

Microsoft authentication issues resolved

Microsoft has resolved the Microsoft Azure authentication issues previously reported.

_{Posted Sept. 29, 2020 8 a.m.
Back to the top}

Microsoft authentication issues

Microsoft is experiencing ongoing intermittent issues that are currently affecting the ability to login and access any of CCU services – such as Moodle, Office 365 Outlook Email, and WebAdvisor – that authenticate via Microsoft Azure. ITS is aware of the situation and is monitoring progress through our Microsoft representative.

Updates will be posted online on the ITS Systems Status page as they become available: https://status.coastal.edu/.

For more information, please visit the following website: https://status.azure.com/en-us/status.

_{Posted Sept. 28, 2020, 7 p.m.
Back to the top}

Email Update from EVERFI

ITS is receiving many calls and emails regarding the validity of an email sent through EVERFI and sponsored by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion at Coastal Carolina University. This is a valid email and not spam. The email looks similar to the sample below. EVERFI partners with CCU for critical skills learning.

EVERFI EMail

_{Posted Sept. 28, 2020
Back to the top}

Microsoft Upgrade Information for Instructional Faculty and Staff

Microsoft has recently made licensing changes that impacts faculty and staff users in Office 365 at Coastal Carolina University. The changes include that Microsoft Teams recorded meetings will no longer automatically upload to Microsoft Stream. Microsoft Teams users and other meeting participants will see the option to download a recording of the meeting after a meeting ends. Currently, users can still download and upload to Microsoft Stream manually.

If you use and record Microsoft Teams Meetings and would like to upgrade early, please submit an ITS online service request with the day and time you wish to upgrade your Office 365 account. During the license upgrade, your CCU account will experience an interruption to all Microsoft services, including email, for potentially up to 24 hours.

The Office of Information Technology Services (ITS) has scheduled a license upgrade for instructional faculty and staff Office 365 users for Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020 at 12:00 a.m. to minimize account interruption during the fall semester. A reminder will be communicated to instructional faculty and staff in advance of the scheduled upgrade.

If you have questions, please contact ITS Service Center for faculty and staff: at 843-349-5000 or access the ITS Online Service Center.

_{Posted Sept. 24, 2020
Back to the top}

Notice for iPhone and iPad Users on Campus - iOS 14 Update

If you upgraded your iPhone or iPad to iOS 14 or will be doing so, please read the following.

IOS 14 contains a new configuration option that could break some companies' and colleges' network setup.

This configuration allows iOS devices to use a random MAC address when connecting to Wi-Fi networks, which is different from the actual device's MAC address. Because of this, your device will appear as a new device every time it reconnects to a network.

If you experience network connection problems, please disable the random MAC address feature following the steps outlined below.

Open the Settings app and select Wi-Fi.
Select the ”i” information button next to the Wi-Fi network you are connected to (CCUnwired or CCUResNet).
Find the “Private Address” setting and turn it off.

If you have questions, please contact ITS Service Center for faculty and staff: 843-349-5000, ITS Online Service Center or Student Computing Services for students and alumni: 843-349-2220, SCS Online Help Request.

_{Posted Sept. 23, 2020
Back to the top}

Fraudulent Email Alert

CCU’s Office of Information Technology Services reminds students, faculty and staff to be aware of fraudulent email messages, especially those that appear to provide financial benefits such as an unsolicited job offer or being selected for an unexpected payment. A recent example claims the recipient was randomly selected for a payment related to COVID-19. The message was created to appear as if it was from the ITS Service Center.
_____________________________________________

Example:

CCU’s Office of Information Technology Services inform you about the COVID-19 Unemployment Benefit Fund:

Your email was randomly selected as a beneficiary to receive COVID-19 Unemployment Benefit Fund.

To receive the Relief Fund:

CLICK HERE
_____________________________________________

Please take the time to closely examine any unsolicited email involving financials (payments, benefits, job offers, etc.) as they likely include various signs of a scam. Please be sure to double-check the sender’s email address. If you receive an email that you suspect is fraudulent, please delete the email immediately. If necessary, check with ITS at 843-349-5000 (faculty and staff) or ITS-Student Computing Services (SCS) at 843-349-2220 (students) to verify and/or report fraudulent emails.

_{Posted June 11, 2020
Back to the top}

Fraudulent Email Alert

CCU’s Office of Information Technology Services reminds students, faculty and staff to be aware of fraudulent email messages. Be suspicious of any unsolicited email and attempt to verify that it is from a trusted source. Recently, we’ve seen phishing attempts that ask the recipient to click on a link to review and/or sign an unsolicited document. Do not open or download attachments or access documents you did not request to receive.

_{Posted June 8, 2020
Back to the top}

Fraudulent Email Alert

CCU’s Office of Information Technology Services reminds students, faculty and staff to be aware of fraudulent email messages that may ask for personal information, such as your cell phone number. During the COVID-19 situation, we anticipate variations of these scams.

Below is a recent example of one of these fraudulent email messages.
_____________________________________________

From: ********
Sent: Wednesday, April 15, 2020 3:17 PM
To: ******
Subject: Quick Request

CAUTION: This email originated from outside your organization. Exercise caution when opening attachments or clicking links, especially from unknown senders.

Send me your available text number

_____________________________________________

_{Posted April 15, 2020
Back to the top}

Fraudulent Email Alert - Direct Deposit Scam

CCU’s Office of Information Technology Services reminds students, faculty and staff to be aware of fraudulent email messages that may offer unsolicited changes to your direct deposit or ask for personal information, resumes or photos. With the upcoming break, we anticipate variations of these scams.

Below is a recent example of one of these fraudulent email messages.
_____________________________________________

From: ********
Sent: Monday, December 9, 2019 11:26 AM
To: ******
Subject: Direct Deposit Info. Update

******,

I need to change my direct deposit for payroll. Please, can you help me get it done at your end? What do I need to send over?

Thank you

**********
_____________________________________________

_{Posted Dec. 9, 2019
Back to the top}

Adobe Licensing Issue

Adobe was experiencing licensing issues on the morning of Monday, Dec. 2. The vendor has provided the resolution; any licensing issues should now be resolved. If you need further assistance, please contact the ITS Service Center for faculty and staff: Wall 105, 843-349-5000, 5000@coastal.edu.

_{Posted Dec. 2, 2019
Back to the top}

Fraudulent Email Alert – Job offer scams on the rise

ITS reminds students, faculty and staff to be aware of fraudulent email messages that may offer unsolicited employment opportunities or ask for personal information, resumes or photos. Fraudulent emails of this sort may appear to originate from CCU email addresses as well as from external email addresses.

Below is a recent example of one of these fraudulent email messages. Please notice that the random capitalization in the email, the unprofessional subject of “Part time job,” the lack of a job description, and the unsolicited job offer are all signs of a scam.
______________________________________________

From: ******** [******@****.***]
Sent: Wednesday, November 20, 2019 1:24 PM
To: ******@****.***
Subject: Part time job

Good Afternoon, how are you doing today? I have an aunt who is moving to the College area, she needs help sitting her dogs, bathing, walking and feeding them also. Her Offer is $300 weekly. If you are interested or know a student who might be interested in this position have them email her (_____) via ******@******.***. Thank You.

______________________________________________

Please take the time to closely examine any unsolicited job offer emails as they likely include various signs of a scam. If you receive an email that you suspect is fraudulent, please delete the email immediately. If necessary, check with ITS at 843-349-5000 (faculty and staff) or ITS-Student Computing Services (SCS) at 843-349-2220 (students) to verify and/or report fraudulent emails.

_{Posted Nov. 20, 2019
Back to the top}

Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) issues resolved

Microsoft has resolved the Microsoft Azure authentication issues previously reported.

If you have questions, please contact ITS Service Center for faculty and staff: Wall 105, 843-349-5000, 5000@coastal.edu, or Student Computing Services for students and alumni: Kearns 113, 843-349-2220, ccuscs@coastal.edu.

_{Posted Oct. 18, 2019, 1:00 p.m.
Back to the top}

Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) issues

Microsoft is experiencing ongoing intermittent issues that are currently affecting the ability to login and access any of CCU services – such as Moodle and Office 365 – that authenticate via Microsoft Azure. ITS is aware of the situation and is monitoring progress through our Microsoft representative.

Updates will also be posted online on the ITS Systems Status page as they become available: https://status.coastal.edu/.

For more information, please visit the following website: https://status.azure.com/en-us/status.

_{Posted Oct. 18, 2019
Back to the top}

Windows Patches Alert

Microsoft released a set of patches on Tuesday August 13, 2019 that fix some critical vulnerabilities and urges all users to update their systems as quickly as possible. All University owned and managed Windows computers (faculty, staff, classroom, labs, etc.) are set to update automatically. If you own a Windows computer that is not set to automatically update then you should manually update your computer. More information can be found at the Microsoft Security Response Center article: https://msrc-blog.microsoft.com/2019/08/13/patch-new-wormable-vulnerabilities-in-remote-desktop-services-cve-2019-1181-1182/

Posted Aug. 15, 2019
Back to the top

Be aware of fraudulent email

ITS reminds students, faculty, and staff to be aware of fraudulent email messages that may offer unsolicited employment opportunities or ask for personal information, resumes or photos. Fraudulent emails of this sort may appear to originate from CCU email addresses as well as from external email addresses.

Below is a recent example of one of these fraudulent email messages:
______________________________________________

From: ******** [******@****.***]
Sent: Monday, June 17, 2019 9:32 AM
To: ******@****.***
Subject: Part time job

Hello and Good day,

Dr. _______ is currently looking out for an assistant who is self motivated, reliable, articulate and eager to learn with minimal supervision required to work-from-home part time as his Personal Assistant.

Job Scope:
> Manage diary and schedule meetings and appointments??
> Screen and direct phone calls and distribute correspondence
> Produce reports, presentations and briefs
> Make travel arrangements

Hours: An Average of 12hrs weekly
Wages: $200.00 weekly

If interested, Submit your resume/cover letter directly to Dr. ______ via: ******@****.***
______________________________________________

If you receive an email you suspect is fraudulent, please delete the email immediately. If necessary, check with ITS at 843-349-5000 (faculty and staff) or ITS-Student Computing Services (SCS) at 843-349-2220 (students) to verify and/or report fraudulent emails.

Email safety tips

Remember to check the authenticity of the sender and the sender’s email address.
Do not open questionable emails or their attachments.
Be extremely wary of emails that request personal or financial information or that ask you to click to confirm your purchase. Instead of clicking, log in directly to the official website by typing the URL yourself. Do not respond to email solicitations for this information.
Remember, CCU will never ask you to verify your account through a link embedded in an email.
Do not forward suspicious emails to others.
Avoid opening unsolicited email or links embedded in an email. Roll your cursor over the links and look for inconsistencies.
Do not download suspicious attachments.

Protect Yourself

Sign up for MFA if you do not already have it (students may visit the ITS-SCS website for more information).
Change your password regularly – at least every 90 days. Please check with ITS or ITS-SCS for assistance, if needed.
Never use your CCU credentials (username and password) for any other website, such as for online shopping, banking or social media.

Websites

Only shop from a trusted computer (not a public one).
Do business only with reputable online vendors.
Verify the URL begins with https: (instead of http:)
Make sure your anti-virus software is up-to-date.

Text Messages

Similar to a phishing scam – where computer users receive an authentic-looking email that appears to be from their bank, Internet Service Provider (ISP), favorite store, or other organization – “smishing” messages are sent to you via text message on your mobile phone.
Do not click on any URL sent to you as a link in a text message.

Clicked on a link you shouldn’t have?

Change your password immediately. Do not reuse a previous password.
Contact the account-related organization immediately.
Scan your devices for viruses and malware using your device’s antivirus software.

Posted June 21, 2019
Back to the top

Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) issues resolved

Microsoft has resolved the authentication issues previously reported.

Posted Jan. 30, 2019
Back to the top

Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) issues

Microsoft is experiencing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) issues. The impact may be experienced by users accessing Office 365 services and Moodle via Multi-Factor Authentication. ITS is aware of the situation and is monitoring progress through our Microsoft representative. Users may also be unable to carry out self-service password resets.

For more information and to check Microsoft’s progress, visit the following websites:

Posted Jan. 29, 2019
Back to the top

Fraudulent Email Alert

The Office of Information Technology Services reminds the campus community of fraudulent email messages that may appear to be originating from CCU email addresses. This is the time of the year that these types of phishing and fraudulent emails increase in the holiday season. Some CCU employees continue to receive email messages that reference “urgent,” “request for meeting,” “are you available,” “are you in your office” or “Apple iTunes gift cards.” Remember to check the authenticity of the sender and the sender’s email address. Please do not open questionable emails or their attachments. If you receive a suspected fraudulent email, please delete the email immediately.

Below it is an example of one these email messages:

______________________________________________

***From: ******** [******@hotmail.com]

***Sent: Monday, December 10, 2018 9:32 AM

***To: ***************

***Subject: Are you on campus

***I need your help

______________________________________________

Faculty and Staff, please contact the ITS Service Center to report or to verify fraudulent emails: Wall 105, 843-349-5000, 5000@coastal.edu. Students and Alumni, please contact Student Computing Services to report or to verify fraudulent emails: Kearns 113, 843-349-2220, ccuscs@coastal.edu.

Posted Dec. 10, 2018
Back to the top

Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) issues resolved

The Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) issues associated with logging into CCU email and Moodle that were reported on Nov. 27 have been resolved.

Posted Nov. 27, 2018, 3:53 p.m.
Back to the top

Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) issues

Microsoft is experiencing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) issues. Impact may be experienced by users accessing Office 365 services and Moodle via Multi-Factor Authentication. ITS is aware of the situation and is monitoring progress through our Microsoft representative. Users may also be unable to carry out self-service password resets.

For more information and to check Microsoft’s progress, visit the following websites:

Posted Nov. 27, 2018
Back to the top

Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) issues resolved

The Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) issues associated with the CCU email that was reported on Nov. 19 have been resolved.

Posted Nov. 20, 2018
Back to the top

Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) issues

For more information and to check Microsoft’s progress, visit the following websites:

If you have questions or experience issues with services, please contact ITS Service Center for faculty and staff: Wall 105, 843-349-5000, 5000@coastal.edu, or Student Computing Services for students and alumni: Kearns 113, 843-349-2220, ccuscs@coastal.edu.

Posted Nov. 19, 2018
Back to the top

Fraudulent Email Alert

Some CCU employees have recently received fraudulent email messages, supposedly from various members of the CCU administration, that reference “urgent,” “request for meeting,” “are you available,” or “Apple iTunes gift cards.” If you receive a suspect email, please delete the email immediately. Please do not open questionable emails or their attachments. Contact the ITS Service Center to report or to verify fraudulent emails.

Remember, CCU's Information Security Awareness Week is Nov. 12-16. Free events and information tables on Prince Lawn are planned for all faculty, staff and students.

Posted Nov. 9, 2018
Return to the top

Update: Microsoft

Microsoft has restored all services that authenticate via Microsoft Azure.

Posted Sept. 7, 2018
Back to the top

Update: Microsoft, Distribution Lists

Microsoft continues making progress toward the full restoration of all services – such as moodle and Office 365 – that authenticate via Microsoft Azure. Service status updates are available through https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/status/.

In addition, there have been a number of reports that campus emails to distribution lists (such as to classes, group lists) have not been received. If you have sent it to a group since then, please either verify with the recipients that they have received the message or resend to the group.

If you have questions or experience issues with services, please contact ITS Service Center for Faculty and Staff: Wall 105, 843-349-5000, 5000@coastal.edu and Student Computing Services for Students and Alumni: Kearns 113, 843-349-2220, ccuscs@coastal.edu.

Posted Sept. 6, 2018
Back to the top

Microsoft login issues

Microsoft has been experiencing intermittent issues that are currently affecting the ability to login and access any of our services – such as moodle and Office 365 – that authenticate via Microsoft Azure. ITS is aware of the situation and is monitoring progress through our Microsoft representative.

For more information and to check Microsoft’s progress, visit the following websites:
https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/status/

https://status.office365.com/

Posted Sept. 4, 2018
Back to the top

Fraudulent Email Alert

Some CCU employees have recently received a fraudulent email message, supposedly from President DeCenzo, that may reference iTunes Gift Card, Expenses, etc. If you have received a suspicious email, please delete the email immediately. Please do not open such questionable emails or their attachments.

Please contact the ITS Service Center to report or verify fraudulent emails: Wall 105, 843-349-5000, 5000@coastal.edu.

Posted Aug. 16, 2018, and July 18, 2018
Back to the top

Reminder of Spam and Fraudulent emails

Phishing/spam emails, links, and websites may appear real. When in doubt, please do not click links and delete the email immediately. If necessary, check with ITS at 843-349-5000 (faculty and staff) or SCS at 843-349-2220 (students) to verify and/or report fraudulent emails.

Posted Dec. 18, 2017, and Feb. 4, 2018
Back to the top

Think Before You Click

Phishing/spam emails, links and websites may appear real. When in doubt, please do not click links and delete the email immediately. If necessary, check with ITS at 843-349-5000 (faculty and staff) or SCS at 843-349-2220 (students) to verify and/or report fraudulent emails.

ITS reminds the CCU community to remain vigilant this holiday season of fraudulent emails, phishing attempts and seasonal campaigns such as shipping notifications, ecards and fake advertisements – that may contain malicious links or attachments infected with malware. These can be sent via email or text.

Be mindful on social media as well, as phony posts can also be linked to malicious activity. Phishing attempts continue to rise worldwide. Such messages may say that your email storage is full and your email will stop working unless you click on a link to verify your account, etc. These are not legitimate emails and should be deleted immediately.

Remember, CCU will never ask you to verify your account in these manners. If you receive suspicious email messages or links to websites through your CCU account, check with ITS or SCS immediately and delete the suspicious email permanently.

Additional Security Tips

‌Protect yourself

First and foremost, change your password regularly – at least every 90 days. Please check with ITS for assistance, if needed.
Never use your CCU credentials (username and password) for any other website, such as for online shopping, banking or social media.

Emails

Be extremely wary of emails requesting information, such as asking for you to click to confirm your purchase. Instead of clicking, directly log in to the official website by typing the address yourself.
Avoid opening unsolicited or embedded links in an email. Roll your cursor over the links and look for inconsistencies.
Do not download suspicious attachments.
Never reveal any personal or financial information in email, and do not respond to email solicitations for this information.
Do not forward suspicious emails to others.
Check with ITS on additional measures to enhance your email security.

Websites

Only shop from a trusted computer (not a public one).
Do business only with reputable online vendors. Verify the URL begins with https: (instead of http:).
Make sure your anti-virus software is up-to-date.

Text Messages

Similar to a “phishing” scam – where computer users receive an authentic-looking email that appears to be from their bank, Internet Service Provider (ISP), favorite store, or other organization – “smishing” messages are sent to you via text message on your mobile phone.
Do not click on any URL sent to you as a link in a text message.

Clicked on a link you shouldn’t have?

Change your password immediately. Do not reuse a previous password.
Contact the account-related organization immediately.
If you receive suspicious email messages or links to website through your CCU account, confirm with ITS or SCS immediately.
Scan your devices for viruses and malware using your computer’s antivirus software.

Faculty and Staff: ITS Service Center, Wall 105, 843-349-5000
Students: Student Computing Services, Kearns Hall 113, 843-349-2220

Some tips provided from U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Back to the top