What should you do if you receive an unexpected email from a colleague with a link?

When you receive an unexpected email from a colleague that includes a link, the best practice is to verify the email's authenticity directly with the sender. This step is important because phishing attacks often involve emails that appear to be from trustworthy sources but are designed to compromise sensitive information or install malware. By asking the colleague directly if they sent the email, you confirm whether it was indeed from them or if it has been spoofed.

This approach not only helps protect your own sensitive information but also safeguards the organization as a whole. If the link turns out to be malicious, reporting it through appropriate channels can help prevent further attacks on others within the institution. Additionally, taking this cautious stance reinforces a culture of security awareness, which is vital in healthcare settings where HIPAA compliance is paramount.