The City of London Police’s National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) is urging university staff to beware after the NFIB received more than 100 reports from victims about bogus pay rise emails.
In an alert issued by the NFIB, part of City of London Police, ‘phishing’ emails claiming to be from university HR departments are being used by fraudsters. Their aim; to gather financial details by suggesting that university staff recipients are due a pay rise.
However, when recipients click on the link, they are taken to a fake website where they are asked to enter personal information, including university log in and financial details. Police forces and governmental agencies have also been targeted by similar emails. The NFIB is now urging university staff to change any passwords associated with their email accounts and IT accounts.
The authorities say passwords should use a combination of letters, numbers and special characters, preferably using random words as opposed to those with personal meaning, such as children’s or pet’s names.
Also, everyone should avoid clicking on links or opening attachments in unsolicited emails or SMS messages; fraudsters can falsify an email address to copy one from somebody you trust. If unsure, check the email header to identify the true source of the email.
Software updates should always be installed as soon as they become available; to offer fixes for critical security vulnerabilities. If you believe your bank details may have been compromised, you should report this to your bank immediately.
Stephen Proffitt, Deputy Head of Action Fraud said: “Phishing emails continue to be a serious problem. It is essential that those affected take the appropriate action to protect their personal details.”
For an example of the scam and its wording, see the City of London Police website.
