Fake Former Employee Financials:

A Jackson resident received multiple emails from someone claiming to be their former employee. One email stated that they needed help changing their bank account information. The other wanted help with their direct deposit. However, the recipient realized that the sender hadn’t worked for their organization for years, indicating that the email is likely a scam. Although the name was the same, the sender's email address was different on each email, further suggesting its fraudulent nature. The email's request to change bank account information under false pretenses raises red flags about potential financial fraud or identity theft. CyberWyoming Note: Always verify the identity of individuals requesting sensitive information or changes to accounts, especially if their request seems unexpected or unusual.

Banking on Awareness:

A Wyoming resident received a written communication that appeared to be from her bank, although it was unsolicited and seemed out of character. Fortunately, the resident consulted a co-worker, who advised her to contact the bank directly. Upon doing so, it was confirmed that the communication was indeed legitimate. CyberWyoming Note: This highlights the importance of seeking advice and having a cyber buddy when faced with suspicious messages. Additionally, it underscores the need for marketing departments within legitimate institutions to ensure their communications do not resemble scam attempts, thereby avoiding unnecessary alarm among customers.

Secure Your Social Security:

Impersonating the Social Security Administration (SSA) has become a common tactic for scammers aiming to steal money and sensitive information, with victims losing nearly $509 million in 2022, according to the Federal Trade Commission. These scams typically involve unexpected calls, texts, or emails claiming urgent issues with your Social Security number, such as suspension due to criminal activity or promises of increased benefits requiring payment. It's important to recognize that SSA will not initiate such calls and won't ask for your Social Security number, as they already have it. If contacted by someone claiming to be from SSA, it's best not to engage and to verify any concerns directly with SSA at 800-772-1213. Setting up a "My SSA Account" can also provide secure communication channels with SSA and offer access to various services online. If you suspect your Social Security number has been compromised, file a police report and seek guidance on protecting against identity fraud from IDtheft.gov. – Brought to you by AARP
aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/text-alerts.html

Swine and Swindle:

Pig-butchering scammers, notorious for their long-term and manipulative approach, have reportedly swindled over $75 billion from victims worldwide, surpassing previous estimates. A recent study by finance professor John Griffin and graduate student Kevin Mei from the University of Texas at Austin tracked the flow of funds through blockchain tracing tools, revealing the extent of the fraud. This type of scam, which has seen a surge in popularity during the pandemic, extends beyond cryptocurrency transactions. time.com/6836703/pig-butchering-scam-victim-loss-money-study-crypto/

Hacked and Handcuffed, More Cybercriminals Caught:

Italian police seized €250 million from Telecom Italia due to alleged phone fraud. The investigation involves unauthorized activation of services for customers between 2017 and 2020. Additionally, a hacker was arrested in Spain for stealing data from 40 million license plates, while a former New Jersey cop faces charges for hacking and distributing explicit material. In another case, a Tampa man is charged with hacking and could face 62 years in prison. Finally, a Maltese man lost his extradition battle to the US for allegedly selling malware on the Dark Web.
German law enforcement successfully dismantled "Crimemarket," the largest illegal trading platform catering to German speakers, facilitating various illicit activities, including drug and weapon sales, money laundering, and cybercrime tutorials. Three alleged operators, including the primary suspect, were arrested, with cash, narcotics, and IT equipment seized. Dutch authorities arrested four members of a phishing gang, and in the US, charges were filed against Iranian hacker Alireza Shafie Nasab. Spanish police arrested 53 individuals involved in sports event manipulation, while in the US, five suspects were apprehended for ATM skimming.
– Brought to you by ImmuniWeb

Data Alert: Facebook's Big Brother Tactics

A recent study by Consumer Reports and The Markup revealed the alarming extent to which thousands of businesses share users' personal information with Facebook. Over three years, 709 volunteers had their data passed on by 186,892 organizations to Meta, Facebook's parent company. This practice involves tracking users' digital activities, such as purchases or online browsing, and sharing that data with Facebook for targeted advertising. The study highlighted concerns about the lack of transparency and the potential for personally identifiable information to be shared. Recommendations include stronger privacy regulations and increased transparency from Facebook regarding data sharing practices.
– Brought to you by The Register theregister.com/2024/01/18/facebook_tracking_data/

MS-ISAC and CISA Patch Now Alert:

The Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) or the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has published a patch now (update your software) alert for Adobe Products and Microsoft Products. If you use this product, make sure the software (or firmware) is updated.

Data Breaches in the News:

Paysign, CISA (IP Gateway and the CSAT), Roku, and Meson.
‍Note: If you have an account with one of these companies, be sure to change your password and consider placing a credit freeze on your accounts through the three credit reporting agencies: TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax.

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Other ways to report a scam:

• Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker: bbb.org/scamtracker/us/reportscam
• Wyoming Attorney General’s Office, Consumer Protection 307-777-6397, 800-438-5799 or ag.consumer@wyo.gov
• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov
• Report your scam to the FBI at www.ic3.gov/complaint
• Reported unwanted calls to the Federal Trade Commission’s Do Not Call Registration. Online at donotcall.gov/report.html or call 1-888-382-1222, option 3
• Office of the Inspector General: oig.ssa.gov
• AARP Fraud Watch Network (any age welcome) Helpline 877-908-3360
• IRS: report email scams impersonating the IRS to phishing@irs.gov
• Call the Wyoming Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) for assistance with potential Medicare fraud, abuse, or errors at 1 800 856-4398
• Victim Support: The AARP Fraud Watch Network and Volunteers of America (VOA) created a new, free program to provide emotional support for people impacted by a scam or fraud, called ReST. Visit www.aarp.org/fraudsupport to learn more about the free program and register