Last year, we decided to tag external emails with the yellow external email tag.  At the same time, we were working on much more in-depth solutions for analyzing email for malfeasance. As those controls have matured, we have determined the tagging interferes in some cases with the additional controls, which recognize the email has been tampered with. For this reason, starting on January 26, we will no longer add [External Email] to any emails that originate outside the University of Tennessee email system for email delivered to the Knoxville area, including UTK, IPS, UTIA, and the UT System office. Other units are continuing to evaluate this change.

We continue to filter large amounts of spam, scams, and malware before reaching you; however, some of these fraudulent messages will slip through.  Remember that phishing scams can come in many forms.  When you are asked to click on a link or open an attachment, pay close attention to both the sender and the content and only do so if it is safe.  

You can review the tips for spotting a phishing scam on OIT’s website to learn more about spotting a scam and how to report it when you receive one.