Phishing scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with cybercriminals now targeting retirees through fraudulent emails posing as legitimate account statements. SMP Hawaii’s computer support provider has recently issued a warning about these deceptive emails designed to steal personal and financial information.
What’s Happening?
Hackers are impersonating the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) and the Electronic Retiree Account Statement (eRAS) system, sending emails that appear to be official notifications. These emails urge recipients to download an attachment named “social-security-statement_35351799.exe”, which is a malicious file capable of compromising your security.
The Dangers of This Scam
If downloaded, this malware can:
- Give hackers remote access to your computer.
- Steal sensitive financial information.
- Drain bank, investment, and retirement accounts.
- Lead to identity theft and fraud.
How to Stay Safe
To protect yourself and your finances, follow these cybersecurity best practices:
- Verify Before Clicking: Never click on links or download attachments from unexpected emails. Always verify the sender’s legitimacy.
- Be Wary of Attachments: Legitimate organizations like DFAS do not send executable (.exe) files through email.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly review your bank, investment, and retirement accounts for any suspicious activity.
- Educate Yourself & Others: Awareness is key—share this alert with friends, family, and colleagues to prevent further scams.
Spread Awareness & Stay Secure
Cybercriminals rely on deception and urgency to trick people into giving up their sensitive information. By staying informed and cautious, you can avoid becoming a victim.
Stay vigilant and help keep our community safe from online threats!
