Protecting Yourself From Scams

Recently, students and staff across the Alamo Colleges have reported a surge in phishing and scam emails. These scams often disguise themselves as official communications, from official sources, making it essential to stay alert.

Here are some key tips to help you identify phishing emails and protect your information.

Tips on How To Spot Phising Scams

1. Look Closely at the Sender’s Email Address

Phishing emails often come from addresses that appear legitimate at first glance but include minor changes or random characters. Always double-check the sender’s email domain. 

2. Watch for Generic Greetings

Phishing emails often use generic greetings like “Dear User” or “Dear alamo colleges students” rather than your actual name. 

3. Use of Urgent Language

They may also try to create a sense of urgency, saying that you have a balance or that action is required immediately to avoid delays. Be cautious of messages that pressure you to act immediately.

4. Beware of Suspicious Links and Attachments

Phishing emails often contain links or attachments that, when clicked, lead you to fake login pages or download viruses. Hover over any links (without clicking) to see the full URL, and verify if it is part of the Alamo colleges domain. Avoid opening attachments from unfamiliar sources, especially if the file format is unusual.

5. Poor Grammar and Formatting

Official emails rarely have typos, grammar issues, or unusual formatting. Grammatical errors and inconsistencies are a major red flag that the email is not legitimate.

6. Requests for Personal Information

Alamo's Student Financial Aid Office, IT department, Refund servicer- BankMobile, and other offices will never ask for your password, Social Security number, or credit card information through email. 

What to Do if You Suspect a Phishing Email

If you receive an email and are unsure that it is a legitimate contact from the Alamo Colleges, do not click on any links or respond. Attempt to contact the legitimate sender you believe the email is impersonating to confirm whether they sent the email. If it is a scam, delete the email from your inbox.

If you think you may have been the victim of a scam, call the ACD Police Department non-emergency line at 210-485-0099, or contact dst-dpsdispatch@alamo.edu.