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Bee Aware: Summer Cyber Scams

Sharpen Your Cybersecurity Awareness Skills

 

Scam spelled out with letter blocks

Ever notice there's an ever-changing list of cyber threats? Seems like we just get used to one, and then another one grabs our attention.

Cybercriminals work overtime to deceive us. But when we increase our awareness, we can maximize our online safety.

Here are some recent ways thieves are getting creative. Be on the lookout for these scams.

Increase in phishing messages seen at Yale

We are noticing an increase in phishing activity at Yale via email and text messages. These messages can sometimes appear to come from members of the Yale community. They may also address you directly. In the past few weeks, you may have received a message that:

  • Threatens your access to specific accounts
  • Offers you a lucrative job opportunity
  • Requests your DUO login codes or push approvals
  • Asks for your personal information such as your password, phone number, or bank information

If you responded to these messages, you might be at risk of further contact with these bad actors. Be on alert for a text message asking for additional information for a texted code.

If you already provided a code, your account is likely compromised. Contact the Information Security Office at information.security@yale.edu immediately.

Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry. For more information on how to spot and report these scams, visit our Click with Caution webpage.

Beware of scammers taking advantage of the national baby formula shortage.

Fake websites and social media profiles are tricking desperate parents and caretakers into paying exorbitant prices. Stick to reputable retailers and type in the company’s URL instead of clicking on a link. The Federal Trade Commission offers helpful tips to steer clear of these scammers and ensure you’re ordering from legitimate sites.

Cybercriminals never go on vacation even when you do.

Steer clear of vacation rentals listed on social media or sketchy web-based listing services. Thieves may offer an imaginary property or copy a legitimate listing but substitute their own contact information. When you reserve the rental, they take your credit card information and steal your money. Would-be renters may arrive at a property to find it doesn't exist, was never for rent, or has other legitimate renters in possession.

Stick to well-known sites like Airbnb or VRBO and carefully research your options. Read reviews, look at photos, contact owners with questions and read the fine print to ensure you’re getting what you expect. Learn about other common travel scams.

Have you received Facebook friend requests from unfamiliar people?

People with whom you don’t have any mutual friends? Always review their profile and be wary if someone has a limited number of friends and/or a newly created profile with limited posts. Proceed with caution too, when people you’re already friends with send you friend requests (most of the time they’re fake profiles). If you’re unsure, ask them if they set up a new profile before accepting the request.