Brookville, In. — The Better Business Bureau is warning owners and consumers about a new phishing scam using the BBB name and logo.
At least three area businesses have reported receiving email apparently from the BBB regarding a violation of workplace standard or rule. The email directs the person to click on a link to get help to solve or solve the problem. Tim Maniscalo from the BBB says clicking on the link will download a virus or malware on your computer.
The goal of the scam is to use a recognizable, credible entity to gain access to your personal information. That information can be used to access credit, cash or services.
If you get an email that claims it is from BBB:
- Do NOTclick on any links or attachments.
- Read the email carefully for signs that it may be fake (for example, misspellings, grammatical errors, generic greetings such as “Dear member” instead of a name, etc.).
- Be wary of urgent instructions to take specified action such as “Click on the link or your account will be closed.”
- Hover your mouse over links without clicking to see if the address is truly from bbb.org. The URL in the text should match the URL that your mouse detects. If the two do not match, it is most likely a scam.
- Send a copy of the email to [email protected](Note: This address is only for scams that use the BBB name or logo)
- Delete the email from your computer completely (be sure to empty your “recycle bin or trash” as well).
- Run anti-virus software updates frequently and do a full system scan.
- Keep a close eye on your bank statements for any unexpected or unexplained transactions.
- If you have clickedon any of the links within the email, immediately change your email and network passwords AND notify your local IT provider for next steps and actions.
The BBB is working closely with law enforcement to find those responsible.
