In the wake of large news events it is common for malicious parties to take advantage of increased media attention by implementing associated “spear phishing” attempts. These emails will often contain embedded links or purport to include exclusive photos or videos, either found on suspicious websites, or included as attachments or links in emails. To protect yourself from these threats please review the following best practices:

Be wary of unsolicited attachments, even from people you know - Just because an email message looks like it came from a familiar source, malicious parties often "spoof" the return address, making it look like the message came from someone else. If you can, check with the person who supposedly sent the message to make sure it's legitimate before opening any attachments. This also includes email messages that appear to be from your Internet Service Provider (ETC) or software vendor claiming to include patches or anti-virus software. ISPs and software vendors do not send patches or software in email.

Keep software up to date - Install software patches so that attackers can't take advantage of known problems or vulnerabilities. Many operating systems offer automatic updates. If this option is available, you should enable it.

Trust your instincts - If an email or email attachment seems suspicious, don't open it, even if your antivirus software indicates that the message is virus free. Attackers are constantly releasing new viruses and most likely your anti-virus software does not have a signature for it yet. Don't let your curiosity put your computer at risk.

Save and scan any attachments before opening them - If you have to open an attachment before you can verify the source, take the following steps:

• Be sure the signatures in your anti-virus software are up to date.
• Save the file to your computer or a disk.
• Manually scan the file using your anti-virus software.

Turn off the option to automatically download attachments - To simplify the process of reading email, many email programs offer the feature to automatically download attachments. Check your settings to see if your software offers the option, and make sure to disable it.

View emails in “Plain Text” – many email applications have options to view emails in “Plain Text”, which will restrict link functionalities and other unnecessary, but potentially dangerous, features in emails. If possible, choose “plain text” in your email viewing options.

Apply additional security practices - You may be able to filter certain types of attachments through your email software or a firewall. Review the programs manual for further assistance.