Payroll Phishers:

A Wyoming business received a phishing email impersonating one of their employees. The email came from an unfamiliar @mail address under a different name, with the subject line "CHANGE OF DETAILS." The message stated that the employee had recently switched banks and opened a new account, so they needed to update their payroll details. They offered to fill out any necessary forms to switch it or share their new account info directly over email. CyberWyoming Note: Wyoming businesses have been frequently targeted by payroll change phishing scams like this, where scammers attempt to reroute an employee’s pay to their own bank account or steal sensitive information. Vigilance and proper procedures such as verifying requests in person or with a phone call, using an HR portal for updates, and never sending banking information via email can prevent unauthorized changes. Always treat unsolicited requests to send account details directly over email as suspicious and handle payroll changes only through official secure channels.

Easy Loans, Hard Truths:

A Wyoming business received multiple unsolicited emails from someone calling themselves “Emma Perez, Co-Partner @ Gova Funding” using a Group Health Strong Prime email domain. The messages, with subjects like “funding for [Real Business Name]” and “question [Real Business Name]”, repeatedly offered fast business funding within 24 hours based solely on revenue (ignoring credit history) if the business had been operating for at least 4 months. Each email pushed for a response, offering either more details or a quick call, and claimed the sender would stop emailing if the recipient replied with phrases like “not the right time,” “decline,” or “this isn’t for us.” CyberWyoming Note: The repeated, unsolicited nature and generic funding promises suggest this is likely a business loan scam/phishing attempt. Even if the sender represents a legitimate company, the emails use high-pressure tactics and vague promises, which are red flags. Always be cautious with unsolicited business offers over email, and independently verify the company before responding or sharing any information.

FBI Warns of Scammers Impersonating the IC3:

The FBI has issued a warning about scammers impersonating the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) to defraud victims of financial fraud. Between December 2023 and February 2025, over 100 reports were received of individuals being contacted via email, phone, social media, or forums by scammers claiming to help recover lost funds. Some scammers create fake social media profiles to pose as fellow victims and direct targets to a fake IC3 official, “Jaime Quin,” to steal sensitive financial information. The FBI emphasizes that IC3 never contacts individuals directly or requests payment for fund recovery. People are urged to protect their information, avoid sending money or assets to strangers, and report suspicious activity to the IC3 (IC3.gov).
– Brought to you by The FBI
‍https://www.ic3.gov/PSA/2025/PSA250418

Beware of Fake Government Notices Targeting Businesses:

Scammers are increasingly targeting business owners with fake government notices via mail and email, often using official-looking seals, watermarks, and personal information from data breaches to appear legitimate. These notices claim urgent reporting requirements, fines, or penalties under laws like the Corporate Transparency Act, and may direct recipients to unsecured websites or QR codes. To protect your business, always verify correspondence directly with government agencies, watch for spelling or formatting errors, check that websites are secure and end in .gov, avoid engaging with scammers, and report any suspicious communications to BBB Scam Tracker or the FBI’s IC3.gov.
– Brought to you by Better Business Bureau
‍bbb.org/article/scams/29408-bbb-business-scam-alert-watch-out-for-fake-government-compliance-notices-targeting-businesses

AI and Fake Reviews:

Online reviews strongly influence consumer choices, but fake reviews, now increasingly generated or enhanced by AI, are distorting trust. These deceptive reviews can boost or damage products and businesses, leading consumers to make poor purchases and unfairly harming small businesses. To protect themselves, shoppers should check for verified buyers, look for detailed review context, and consult multiple platforms. Businesses can also use AI detection tools to spot suspicious activity and safeguard their reputation.
‍– Brought to you by ICC
‍iccusa.net/blogs/ai-and-fake-reviews-how-ai-is-manipulating-online-reputation-and-scamming-consumers

ITRC’s Cyber-Hygiene Quiz:

Online safety, also called cyber-hygiene, is constantly evolving, and staying informed is key to protecting your personal information. Following best practices can help you strengthen your security and reduce the risk of identity theft. The Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) is committed to raising awareness and promoting practical strategies to stay safe online. See how much you know and test your cyber-hygiene skills by answering a few quick questions in their new quiz.
– Brought to you by Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC)
‍idtheftcenter.org/are-you-cyber-safe/

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 Fortra GoAnywhere, Google, Mozilla, Sonicwall, WatchGuard Firebox, and SolarWinds Web Help Desk. If you use any of these products, make sure the software (or firmware) is updated.

Data Breaches in the News:

Tiffany, SonicWall, Crypto.com, and Stellantis. Note: If you have an account with 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.

Please report scams you may experience to phishing@cyberwyoming.org to alert your friends and neighbors.

‍Other ways to report a scam:

• Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker: bbb.org/scamtracker/us/reportscam
• Wyoming Attorney General’s Office, Consumer Protection
  • Email ag.consumer@wyo.gov
  • Complaint form attorneygeneral.wyo.gov/law-office-division/consumer-protection-and-antitrust-unit/consumer-complaints

• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov
• Get steps to help at www.IdentityTheft.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
• If you believe someone is using your Social Security number, contact the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271.
• 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