Users of Instagram and PayPal should be on the lookout for these recently discovered phishing scams.
Instagram Phishing Emails Warn of Account Closure
Instagram users have reported receiving phishing emails from scammers posing as the tech company. The emails claim the user has violated Instagram's copyright, and in order to keep their account active, they must object to the charge within 72 hours or else their account will be deleted. The email advises the target to click on the blue Objection Form button to proceed.
What To Do About This?
While this email may look legitimate, it is in fact a phishing scam. Here are some important items to remember, as well as steps you should take if you receive this email:
No reputable organization will ever send an email asking you to take action in this manner, nor will they ever ask you for login credentials or personally identifiable information.
If you receive this email, do not click on the link, nor should you reply to the sender, even if you know it's a scammer on the other end. The best course of action is to block them.
If you aren't sure about the legitimacy of an email, contact the BlackCloak Concierge team. We'll be able to tell you whether a message is legitimate or not.
PayPal Phishing Scam Sends Users Phony Invoices
Scammers are sending invoices through PayPal to trick targets into disputing pending charges. The email claims the user will be charged hundreds of dollars, and to dispute the charge, they must call a toll-free number to contest the transaction. The scammer on the other end of the call will ask the user to download software that will ultimately give them control over the targeted device.
What Should You Do?:
Report the emails to PayPal's security team at phishing@paypal.com.
Once again, no reputable entity will ever send you an email asking you to take immediate action to resolve a problem. The goal is to instill fear and trick you into making a rash decision.
Never call a phone number you see in an email. Always cross reference any number you recieve.
Do not allow anyone to download software on your device. This will give them control over your device and possibly allow them to steal your valuable information.
Once again, contact the BlackCloak Concierge team if you have questions about a message you have received.
Cyber scams are becoming more sophisticated by the day. It's why you should always keep your eyes peeled for the warning signs that will tell you that you are facing a scam. To learn more about these warning signs, watch this on-demand webinar from BlackCloak Education Coordinator Ryan Chiavetta, titled Spotting Cyber Scam Red Flags.
