Yesterday, the FBI released a Public Service Announcement (PSA) warning of cybercriminals targeting Seniors with subscription refund scams.
The MO
- Potential victims are contacted by phone, text or email with the attacker claiming to have detected fraudulent activity and the target is due a refund for a subscription service for which they didn't sign up for.
- The only way to get the refund is by allowing the attacker to connect to the victim's computer and depositing it “directly†into the victim's bank account.
- Once connected, the victim is convinced to log on to their bank account. The scammer then supposedly transfers an amount to the victim's bank account but "accidentally" deposits a much larger amount than intended. The scammer points this "error" out and tells the victim to return the extra money or the scammer will lose their job.
- The scammer instructs the victim to send the money, in cash, wrapped in a magazine via FedEx to a name and address provided by the scammer. Typically, a retail location to be held for pickup.
How to protect yourself:
- Never download software at the request of an unknown individual who contacted you.
- Never allow an unknown individual who contacted you to have control of your computer.
- Do not click on unsolicited pop-ups, links sent via text messages, or email links or attachments. Do not contact the telephone number provided in a pop-up, text, or email.
- Never send cash via mail or shipping companies.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation
