Protecting Yourself from Call Spoofing

Learn how to protect yourself from calls and texts that pretend to be from someone you trust, such as NCU, a bank, or the government.

Caller ID can be faked. A call can show an NCU number, or the name of a real office, and still be a scam.

Warning signs

  • The caller asks for your password, an MFA code, or to approve a sign-in prompt.
  • They push you to act right now, or threaten consequences.
  • They ask for payment by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.
  • They ask you to install software or give them remote access to your computer.

Never share your password or MFA code

NCU IT will never ask for your password or an MFA code, and no one else at NCU needs them either. If someone asks for either, it's a scam. Sharing your NCU account is also against NCU's Acceptable Use of Information Technology policy.

What to do

1

Hang up

You don't owe the caller anything.
2

Call back a number you trust

Look up the office's number yourself, such as on northcentral.edu, instead of using the number that called you.
3

Report it

If the call claimed to be from NCU, or you shared any information, submit a request through Report Information Security Incidents or call the IT Service Desk at 612.343.4170, or visit Miller Hall 226.

Already shared your password or approved a prompt you didn't start? Change your NCU password right away (see Changing or Resetting Your University Password) and contact the IT Service Desk.

Print Article