Before we break for summer, we want to highlight a few important reminders to help you stay secure wherever the season takes you.
In this issue, we take a closer look at ClickFix attacks — a tactic that disguises malware as something familiar, like a CAPTCHA or system prompt, and relies on users to unknowingly run malicious code. We’ve seen an increase in this activity, making awareness especially important.
We’re also addressing the continued rise in online job scams as students pursue internships and summer work. These scams often move quickly and feel legitimate — which is exactly the point.
You’ll also find guidance on OpenClaw and why tools with system-level access are not approved for use with university data, along with information about an upcoming MFA enhancement that adds additional protection when sign-in activity appears unusual.
Whether you’re traveling, working, researching, or taking a well-earned break, a few thoughtful pauses can prevent significant risk.
Thank you for continuing to protect your work and our community.
Staying secure, one Mustang at a time.
Corrina Taylor
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
ClickFix is a social engineering tactic that misleads users into executing malware through fake verification prompts, including CAPTCHAs. This method targets Windows, macOS, and Linux systems via compromised websites and emails. Victims unknowingly download information-stealing malware, risking personal data and network security. Users should avoid pasting commands from webpages and report suspicious activity.
As summer approaches, more students begin searching for internships, part-time work, or their first full-time role. At the same time, job scams continue to rise—and not just slightly.
OpenClaw, the agentic “personal AI assistant” that uses autonomous AI agents, is not approved for use on university-owned or managed devices at this time due to security concerns.
Microsoft Authenticator may occasionally ask you to confirm your sign‑in with multi‑factor authentication (MFA) if something about a login looks unusual.
SMU's singular approach to integrating rigorous learning with hands-on experience will prepare you to achieve your educational goals and expand your world in ways you never imagined. Ours is a community of people forging their own paths. We'd like to
help you shape yours.
