When a Message Looks Official — But Isn’t
You open your email and see a message that looks like it came from your school.
It uses the school logo.
It sounds professional.
It says something urgent needs your attention.
Your first reaction is trust.
That’s exactly what phishing scams rely on.
What Is Phishing?
Phishing is when someone pretends to be a trusted organization or person to trick you into clicking a link, sharing information, or giving access to your account.
In school-related phishing, scammers often pretend to be:
- your school
- a teacher
- the IT department
- a learning platform you use every day
Why Students Are Common Targets
Students are targeted not because they are careless — but because they regularly use:
- school email accounts
- learning platforms
- shared documents
- deadlines and assignments
Scammers know that school messages feel urgent and important.
Real-Life Phishing Scenarios Students Face
Scenario 1: “Your School Account Needs Verification”
You receive an email saying:
“Your school account will be suspended unless you verify your login.”
It includes a link that looks official.
What’s really happening:
The link leads to a fake login page designed to steal your username and password.
Scenario 2: “Message From a Teacher”
The email says:
“Please review the attached document before class.”
The sender’s name looks familiar — but the email address is slightly different.
Red flag:
Teachers usually share documents through official platforms, not random links or attachments.
Scenario 3: “New Assignment Available”
You get a notification saying:
“A new assignment has been uploaded. Click here to view.”
The link doesn’t lead to your usual school platform.
Warning sign:
Assignments should always be accessed through the same trusted system.
Common Red Flags to Watch For
- Urgent language (“act now”, “account suspended”)
- Links that don’t match the official school website
- Requests for passwords or verification codes
- Unexpected attachments
- Slight spelling or formatting mistakes
If something feels off, it probably is.
What To Do If You Receive a Suspicious School Message
- Do not click links or open attachments
- Check the sender’s email address carefully
- Log in directly to your school platform instead of using the link
- Take a screenshot of the message
- Report it to a trusted adult or school IT team
Pausing before acting is a smart decision.
What If You Already Clicked?
If you already clicked a link or entered information:
- Don’t panic
- Change your password immediately
- Log out of other sessions
- Tell a trusted adult or school staff member
- Report the incident
Asking for help early can prevent bigger problems.
How This Makes You a Cyber Hero
A cyber hero:
- stops and thinks before clicking
- protects their own account
- helps friends recognize similar scams
- reports suspicious messages
Every smart choice helps protect not just you — but your entire school community.
Awareness is your first line of defense.