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Fraudulent email containing malware claims recipients need to appear before a grand jury
The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) warns of spam email currently circulating that contains a fraudulent subpoena notifying recipients they are commanded to appear and testify before a Grand Jury. The email appears authentic as it contains a court case number, federal code, name and address of a California federal court, court room number, issuing officers' names, and a court seal.
How the scam works
Recipients are directed to click the link provided in the email in order to download and print associated information for their records. If the recipient clicks the link, malicious code is downloaded onto their computer. The email also contains language threatening recipients with contempt of court charges if they fail to appear and claims the subpoena will remain in effect until the court grants a release. As with most spam, the content contains multiple spelling errors.
What should you do if you receive this email?
If you receive this type of notification and are unsure of its authenticity, you should contact the issuing court for validation. If you have received an email similar to this, please file a complaint at www.ic3.gov.
What can you do to protect yourself against email scams?
Be wary of unsolicited email, especially from an unknown sender, and do not open it. If you do open the email, do not click any embedded links, as they may contain a virus or malware.
We also suggest you sign up for our Fraud Prevention e-LERT. Our Fraud Prevention e-LERT will immediately advise you when we have added a new article or warning to the ‘Fraud Alert' section of our website.
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