US Navy Cyber Awareness Challenge 2025 Practice Test

Receiving an email from a personal address that instructs you to call a number you do not recognize is indicative of a potential spear phishing attempt. Spear phishing is a targeted attempt to steal sensitive information or initiate unauthorized actions by masquerading as a trustworthy entity. This scenario raises several red flags, such as the use of a personal rather than a professional email address and the request to contact an unknown phone number, which could be an attempt to lure you into providing sensitive information or engaging in further malicious activity.

The appropriate action is to report the email to your security point of contact or help desk. This ensures that your organization's security personnel can investigate the matter and take necessary precautions to protect other employees from potential threats. By reporting such incidents, you contribute to a proactive cybersecurity culture and help prevent potential breaches.

Other responses do not adequately address the threat posed by this kind of email, as they either downplay the seriousness of the situation or suggest actions that could lead to further risk. It's important to approach unexpected communications with caution and follow established reporting protocols.