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Internet Scams

Tips to Avoid and Recognize Internet Scams

  • Delete emails if you do not know the sender. Even if you know the sender, do not assume you can trust the email. 
  • If you receive an email claiming to be from a business or bank asking for personal or financial information, do not reply or click on the link in the email. 
  • Remember: Legitimate businesses and banks will never ask for confidential information through regular email. 
  • Remember: The link in the email may not connect you with the site you believe it will. 
  • Routinely review your credit card and bank statements for unauthorized or suspicious transactions. 
  • Contact the business or bank immediately by phone with a verified published phone number to report any suspicious activity. 
  • Protect your computer with up-to-date anti-virus software, spyware filters, email filters and firewall programs. You can contact the IT Helpdesk for more information at 209-228-4357 (228-HELP) or by email: helpdesk@ucmerced.edu. 
  • If you believe you have been a victim of an email scam or have questions, contact the UC Merced Police Department at 209-228-2677 (CAT-COPS) or email: police@ucmerced.edu. 

Phishing 

  • Phishing: Criminals create email messages and web pages that look like they come from existing, legitimate sites and businesses, such as PayPal, eBay or banks. 
  • These websites and emails trick users into submitting personal information such as credit card numbers, bank account information, Social security numbers and passwords. 
  • Once you have submitted your personal information, criminals steal money from the accounts you have given the information on. They might also use your information in identity-theft crimes, such as opening credit card accounts in your name. 

Advanced Fee Letter Fraud (419/West African/Nigerian letters) 

  • Scam artists send out emails that appear to be from Nigeria or other foreign countries. The e-mail promises rich rewards for helping government officials, banks or members of a family. 
  • Typically, the pitch includes the mention of a large amount of money that you will be able to share in, if you do something for them. Typically what they ask you to do is send or wire a large chunk of your own money to them. 
  • Do not respond to any of these scams. Realize you are dealing with criminals.