Protect Yourself Against Retirement Benefits Phishing Attempts

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The UMass Amherst Information Security team has seen a steep rise in emails to umass.edu accounts regarding retirement planning, sent by organizations with no relationship to UMass Human Resources, MA State Retirement Board, Department of Higher Education or their plan representatives.

Determining whether these emails are phishing attempts or legitimate marketing emails can often be challenging. Following these tips can help you keep your information safe and avoid scams!

1. Verify the Sender: Scrutinize email addresses for deceptive tactics like mimicking official domains or slight variations to appear legitimate.
    
2. Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links: Exercise caution with links in emails, especially those urging urgent action or offering updates on retirement benefits.
    
3. Beware of Urgency and Threats: Be cautious of emails threatening suspension of benefits or account closure unless immediate personal information is provided. Legitimate providers rarely communicate urgent matters via email.
    
4. Never Share Personal Information: Reputable providers never request sensitive data like Social Security numbers or login credentials via email. Contact them directly through official channels to verify any requests.

By remaining vigilant, verifying sender information, avoiding clicking on suspicious links, being cautious of urgency and threats, and refraining from sharing personal information, you can effectively protect yourself against retirement benefits phishing attempts.

Make informed and considered decisions about who you engage as a retirement planner. The University does not provide or advertise financial planning services.

Members of the MA State Employees’ Retirement System can request a pension estimate directly from the MA Retirement Board. Members of the Optional Retirement Program can request that directly from their investment vendor (TIAA or Fidelity).