Advisory - Email Scam

Date Occurred: 
October 25, 2018

During the period from September 25th to October 17th, the UMPD has taken several reports of financial scams through the use of email. Students are sent emails soliciting very promising job prospects with the offer to prepay for work. Students are requested to provide personal information, including name, date of birth, address and phone number before the check is sent. In some instances, students were asked to set up an alternate email address. Once interest is confirmed, students were sent checks and asked to deposit them into their bank account and then make money transfers or purchase gift cards before the checks are confirmed as valid.
Anyone with information regarding fraudulent activity should contact UMPD Officers Bak or Fenton at (413)-545-2121.
The UMass Amherst Police Department also recommends taking the following actions if you receive these types of communications:
• Do not wire money to unknown parties
• Do not divulge any personal information via email.
• Do not meet in person with the caller/emailer under any circumstances
• Ask probing questions and gather as much information as possible
• Contact the UMass Amherst Police Department at (413) 545-2121 immediately.

Posted: Oct 20, 2018, 2:27 pm
Last Updated: Oct 20, 2018, 2:35 pm

CONTACT

UMPD
585 East Pleasant Street
Amherst, MA 01003-9600

umpd@admin.umass.edu
413-545-2121 non-emergency
413-545-3111 emergency or 911
413-545-3113 fax

Tips

Call 413-577-TIPS (8477) or use our Anonymous Witness Form.