How do I report a suspicious or phishing email?

If an email looks suspicious, report it instead of clicking anything. If you already clicked a link or entered your password, contact the Help Desk right away.

Warning signs

• It's urgent or threatening ("Your account will be closed today").
• The sender's address doesn't match the name, or is slightly misspelled.
• It asks you to sign in, open an attachment, buy gift cards, or change payment or bank details.
• Hover over links (don't click) to see where they really go.

Report it

1. Don't click links, open attachments, or reply.
2. In Outlook, select the email, select Report on the ribbon, and choose Report phishing.
3. If you don't see a Report button, forward the email as an attachment to helpdesk@unioncountync.gov.

I already clicked a link or entered my password

1. Change your password right away (see How do I change my password?).
2. Call the Help Desk at (704) 283-3834 x5000. For security issues, calling is faster than a ticket.
3. If you opened an attachment, disconnect from the network (turn off Wi-Fi or unplug the cable) and leave the computer on until IT contacts you.

A real email keeps going to Junk

Right-click the email and select Junk > Not Junk. If emails from a business partner are being blocked entirely, submit a ticket with the sender's address.

Important: You'll never get in trouble for reporting an email, even if it turns out to be safe.