Have you ever received an email or text message that looks like it's from your manager, supervisor or professor, asking you to do them a quick favor? Maybe they need you to pick up some gift cards for an upcoming event, or something similar. Before you rush out and buy those gift cards, pump the brakes! It might not really be your boss.
Unfortunately scammers are getting very clever. The email they send may look exactly like it's from your supervisor. They can even fake the email address, or in some cases, unfortunately, they might have hacked your boss's account. They'll come up with a believable yet urgent story – a surprise party, an award ceremony, or something similar. They'll ask you to help by purchasing the gift cards out of pocket, promising to reimbure you right away.
Here's the catch: once you give them the gift card numbers and PINs, the money is gone. It's like handing them cash – you can't get it back.
So, what should you do if you get one of these suspicious emails? Here are a few key things to remember:
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Never, ever buy gift cards for payments or for gift for someone else. Gift cards are for gifts, plain and simple. If anyone asks you to pay a bill with gift cards or purchase gift accounts in large amounts for work, it's a huge red flag. It's almost certainly a scam.
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Double-check with your supervisor directly. Don't reply to the email. Instead, call your boss using a phone number you know is correct – not one from the suspicious email. Or wait until you see them face-to-face. Explain the situation and ask if they really sent the request. Do not comply until you're satisfied that you spoke with your supervisor or professor directly.
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Pause and think. If you can't reach your manager or instructor right away, talk to a trusted coworker or friend. Describe what happened and get their opinion. You can always call information technology as well. Our number is 831-582-4357 or you can forward the message to our email phishing@csumb.edu. You can even send us screenshots of text messages.
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If you've already fallen victim: If you or someone you know has already paid a scammer, act fast by contact the gift card company immediately. It's always worth trying. Then contact your local police to file a report.
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Report it! If you see this scam or have fallen pray, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. This helps them track these scams and warn others.
Remember, we're all in this together. By being vigilant and following these tips, we can help protect ourselves and our community from these scams.