Here at Catch of the Day we care about avoiding malicious emails that attempt to steal data or money, whether from Vassar College or from any individual associated with the college.  We don’t want anyone to suffer negative impacts from cybercriminals and all that they do!

We also care about avoiding scams that are not directly related to computing.  Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic started, cybercriminals have been taking advantage with some new and interesting ways to try to steal data and money.  It is important to be aware of all these scams and understand how to avoid them.

Here is a partial list of COVID-19 scams to watch out for:

• Fake contact tracers – you may receive a call from someone who claims to be a contact tracer.  A contact tracer will only ask you for your name, address, general health information, and where you have been in the last 14 days.  A contact tracer will never ask for your Social Security Number, Credit Card number, bank account, or ask for any payment.  Also, a contact tracer will never send you a text or email with a document for download.
• Fraudulent unemployment claims – criminals may file for unemployment benefits under your name.  If you receive any communication from an unemployment office that your claim has been processed and you did not submit it yourself, contact the unemployment office immediately.
• Fake products – avoid purchasing COVID-19 related products such as personal protective equipment (PPE), medications, herbal remedies, air filtration, or other related products that you see advertised via email or websites.  Always consult with a health professional for the latest guidance and verified products.
• Fundraising scams – beware of solicitations for fundraising related to COVID-19 relief.  Even if you get an advertisement or an email that appears to be from a known charity, you should check the official organization’s website to ensure that they are raising money legitimately.  Also, beware of individual pleas for financial assistance, such as those found on Go Fund Me

If you ever see an advertisement or get an email and you are unsure of it’s legitimacy, send it along!  Email the link or forward the original email to catchoftheday@vassar.edu If you get a suspicious phone call, you may report it to the same email address.  If it is urgent, please contact the Service Desk at 845-437-7221

Stay vigilant!  Stay safe!  And most importantly, don’t get hooked.

Helpful links:

• Avoid COVID-19 scams from the Department of Homeland Security:  https://www.dhs.gov/employee-resources/blog/2020/06/16/avoiding-covid-19-scams
• Avoid COVID-19 scams from the Federal Trade Commission: https://www.ftc.gov/coronavirus/scams-consumer-advice
• Coronavirus Scam from the Federal Communications Commission: https://www.fcc.gov/covid-scams
• COVID-19 Security Resource Library from Stay Safe Online:  https://staysafeonline.org/covid-19-security-resource-library/