What are some student-friendly “scam scenarios” that you could use in the classroom for encouraging students to critically think about messages they receive? Create your own “fake scam” to share with the community so they can try and spot the tell-tale signs!

To start the activity students analyse a phishing email (e.g. like the one we have created below) pretending to be sent by ebay. (Attached)

Students, in groups, can analyse and evaluate the email. To help students evaluate phishing attempts, we have developed CSER guide on ‘The 5 C’s of critical consuming’ based on the LibGuides from the University of Groningen. 

If you received this message in your email, what would you do with it?

Would you be more inclined to act if you are a regular user of eBay?

What does the URL tell you about the origin of this message?

Do you think it’s real? Why or why not?

What personal information is requested in this email?

At the end of the discussion, make sure students understand that this is an example of email scam.