Read Our Latest Articles

Updated on July 1, 2021 with the new external email warning banner image.

Earlier this month, OIT outlined the specifics of the next phase of protecting our campus – and your personal information – from cybercrime. Security breaches are increasing in intensity and complexity and email is one of the most vulnerable access points. Beginning the week of June 28, the banner below will appear at the top of incoming email messages that originate from outside of the university.



Email spoofing and phishing can trick us into thinking that a message came from a university person that can be trusted — such as the Human Resources Department or Chancellor — as has happened in recent months. Oftentimes we see the sender’s name in the message as a recognized name or department and don’t realize that it is forged or spoofed. This new warning banner serves as a reminder to be cautious opening attachments or following links from external contacts — it does not impact sending or receiving emails. 

Emails from other CU campuses and the system office, our healthcare affiliates, and other approved university-supported platforms will not include the banner. If your department or school uses a third-party email service to send messages or internal newsletters, those emails may be tagged with the external banner. 

Visit the OIT website for more information about the initiatives and services provided by OIT including the CU Secure and Multi-Factor Authentication implementation.

Please contact the OIT Service Desk if you have any additional questions about the new external email banner warning. We appreciate your efforts staying alert for potential cybersecurity issues and familiarizing yourself with ways to protect your personal information and university data.