Publish date: 23 January 2025
Cyber security is all our responsibility. Recently, NHS organisations across the region have experienced an increase in phishing attacks. It’s crucial to stay alert and carefully verify any communications you receive to make sure they are legitimate.
Phishing involves cyber criminals sending fake emails that appear to come from trusted sources. Their goal is to trick you into revealing sensitive information to gain access to your accounts and data.
Below is an example of a recent phishing email that has been targeting NHS colleagues.
If you receive this email or one similar, do not click the link. You will never be contacted about keeping your password.
If you click this link, you will be taken to a false login screen like the NHSmail page pictured below. Do not sign in or click on any links. Cyber criminals will steal your login details, compromising your account and data.
If you have clicked on any of these links or have entered any details, please let your IT Service Desk know immediately.
Staying safe online
One way to identify whether a website is safe is by the website address. This is highlighted in red in the picture above. In this example, the website address is nothing like the real address.
Please note: Cyber criminals will use different fake website addresses to catch you out, so it is always best to check what the real website address should be. If you are unsure whether a website link, email or attachment is real, please contact your IT Service Desk for guidance and support.
Anything suspicious should be immediately reported to your IT Service Desk.
Additional support, including hints and tips, can also be found on the Be Cyber Savvy website managed by the Cheshire and Merseyside Health and Care Partnership Cyber Security Group. Please also read our guide on how to spot and protect yourself from scam emails.
Thank you for your support.