Security Alerts: What They Mean and How to Respond

Common Alert Types

• Phishing email warning (reported or detected)
• Malware found by endpoint protection
• Unusual signin or MFA prompt you didn’t initiate

First Moves (Do/Don’t)

• Do not click links or open attachments if unsure.
• Do take a screenshot of the alert.
• Do report via your company’s phishing/report button or help desk.

Verify Legitimacy

• Real alerts come from known tools your org uses (e.g., Defender,
  CrowdStrike, Proofpoint).
• Hover over links; check sender domain; beware urgent language.

If You Clicked by Accident

1. Disconnect from the network (WiFi off).
2. Inform IT immediately—time matters.
3. Don’t delete the email or files; IT needs evidence.

Endpoint Protection Popups

• If it says quarantined, you’re likely safe, but still report it.
• If it cannot remove, power down and contact IT.

When to Call IT (Always OK)

• Any unexpected MFA prompt or signin alert.
• Ransom note, browser hijack, or repeated detections.

Levit8 provides 24/7 help desk and managed security so users always know what to do—and aren’t doing it alone.

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