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Email security

Updated: 2026-08-22 Applies to: All staff and students Staff Students

How SCU filters email

SCU uses Microsoft Defender for Office 365 to filter email before it reaches your inbox. It blocks known phishing, spam, and malware. Some messages still get through, which is why the external sender tag exists.

The external sender tag

When an email comes from outside SCU, you will see External in the subject line or banner. This does not mean the email is dangerous, but it means you should be more careful before clicking links or opening attachments.

What to look for

  • Check the sender address, not just the display name
  • Hover over links before clicking
  • Do not open unexpected attachments
  • Report suspicious emails using the Report Phishing button in Outlook

If you receive a phishing email

Use the Report Phishing button in Outlook. The email is removed from your inbox and sent to the security team for review.

If you clicked a link or entered your password, change your password immediately and report the incident.