CAUTION – Stimulus Email and Text Message Scams

The current situation continues to entice criminal activity. Not only are bad actors disseminating false information, numerous sites presuming to provide legitimate information are also distributing malware. USG Cybersecurity has observed more than 4,000 new domain registrations pertaining to COVID-19 during the last 45 days.

With the US Congress passage of the stimulus package, we are now witnessing a rise in attempts to defraud individuals or obtain private information. In particular, these tactics include using email, SMS/text messaging and robocalls. Below are some examples of recent scam communications. Expect variations on the theme.

COVID-19 Phishing Scam Email with subject "Funds Release Update"

COVID-19 payment request text message scam

COVID-19 Refund Scam SMS Message

Please remain vigilant about unsolicited email and text messages that purport to be from GHC, the State of Georgia or the US Government. Never send personal information, such as banking account numbers or your Social Security Number by email.

As always, please report suspicious email messages to GHC IT by forwarding them to rt@highlands.edu.