ITS News - July 2025
How I got Phished (Almost)
Okay, okay—I didn’t really get phished. But let’s just say I was tested… and I fell for it, hook, line, and sinker. As humbling as it was, it proves that even those of us who are trained to spot phishing attempts can still get tripped up—especially as phishing tactics evolve with advances in AI. So, let’s talk about why my internal alarms didn’t go off this time.
1. It Came from a Trusted Source
This email came from an account that usually passes through multiple layers of sophisticated threat detection. My mistake? I trusted the software too much. As good as modern tools are, nothing is 100% effective. It’s a reminder that we, the humans behind the screens, still need to be vigilant.
2. It Was Non-Threatening
Most phishing emails rely on fear or urgency—“Act now or lose access!”—but this one was calm and casual. It simply said some emails were blocked and asked how I wanted to handle them. Just because an email isn’t aggressive doesn’t mean it isn’t dangerous. It can still be phishing for your password with a smile.
3. I Was Distracted
I was multitasking—reading email while having a conversation—which meant my full attention wasn’t on the message. That lack of focus let something slip by. Rule of thumb: when reviewing unfamiliar or unexpected emails, stay focused and alert.
4. It Looked Legit… Almost
I clicked the link and landed on a Microsoft sign-in page that looked nearly identical to the real thing. But one thing was off—my password manager didn’t autofill. That should’ve been a red flag. Recently I’d been having issues with that account and had to reset my password, so I chalked it up to that. I also use two-factor authentication, which would have required me to enter a code from my phone. I never got that far, because the next page revealed the punchline: I’d been caught.
Turns out, it was a pen test—a fake phishing attempt as part of a security awareness program (a service we offer, by the way). Once I looked closer, it was clear: the email was from an address that would never send such a message, and the “Microsoft login” page was from a domain that looked close—but wasn’t Microsoft.
The takeaway? No one’s immune. We rely on tech to protect us, but ultimately, our best defense is a sharp eye and healthy skepticism. Phishing emails are getting smarter—but so can we.
Entering the 250th year of the Great American Expriement
This Independence Day carries special meaning—it begins the 250th year of the United States of America. Two and a half centuries ago, a bold idea took shape: that people could govern themselves, that power could rest with the people, and that freedom was not a privilege, but a right.
Democracy was—and still is—the great experiment. It’s never been perfect, never been easy, and never been guaranteed. But it endures because people like us continue to believe in it, fight for it, and work to make it better for the next generation.
So as we enjoy the fireworks, the cookouts, and the moments of summer joy, let’s also pause to reflect on just how far we've come—and how much responsibility we carry to keep this grand experiment alive and thriving.
Happy 4th of July!
Monthly Special: Freedom from Tech Troubles
Virus Removal Special – “Declare Independence from Malware”: 20% off virus/malware removal through July 15.
PC Tune-Up Package – “Start Fresh at Mid-Year”: Discounted full system checkup and cleanup ($20–$30 off).
