Protect Yourself From Business Email Compromise Scams
Scams have been on the rise in recent years and one in particular is the Business Email Compromise Scam (BEC). These BECs typically happen like this: an employee receives an email from a scammer who they thought was their boss or high-ranking member of their organization. The email instructs the employee to wire money to a vendor (which is fake) or purchase gift cards. Once the transfer is complete, it can be difficult or nearly impossible to get the money back.
These scams are not far from home, in fact, one Ferguson Township business owner almost lost $98,000 to this type of scam. Thankfully, with quick action, the transfer was stopped.
Following steps to protect yourself:
- If you receive a message or email from your boss or co-worker, verify spelling/grammar, email address, URL, phone number, and other identifying information before taking action. If you are unsure, contact you supervisor to verify.
- Be careful with what information you share online or on social media. By openly sharing things like pet names, schools you attended, links to family members, and your birthday, you can give a scammer all the information they need to guess your password or answer your security questions.
- Never open an email attachment from someone you don't know & be wary of what you download.
If you fall victim, the best hope to stop transfer is to:
- Notify your supervisor immediately.
- Notify your business's financial institution immediately.
- File a complaint with Internet Crime Complaint Center.
- Notify the local Police Department.
Learn more about Business Email Compromise scams by visiting the FBI's website.
Contact the Ferguson Township Police Department at 814-237-1172 or email police@twp.ferguson.pa.us.