Timely Warning: Internet scam targets University of Richmond faculty

A recent internet scam targeted Richmond faculty in attempt to redirect salary funds, according to a Timely Warning email faculty, staff and students received Tuesday afternoon.

According to the Timely Warning email, an email claiming to be from Richmond HR that contained the University shield and a link to for recipient to log on in order to learn about their October raise was sent to some faculty members. The perpetrator then used the information given to log onto the faculty members' BannerWeb accounts and changed their direct deposit information. The problem was targeted and resolved before any funds were misdirected, although the case is still under investigation, Richmond help desk employees said.

This type of email is considered a “spear fishing” attack, which is when cyber criminals use emails in attempt to trick recipients by making them think that there is an urgent message or a requested action, according to the University Communications email. When the recipient clicks on the link inside the email, they are taken to a website that attempts to hack their computer or get personal information.

Spear fishing attacks frequently happen, but this one was more elaborate than usual, the help desk employees said.

University Communications encourages students and faculty to use caution when opening emails that contain attachments, links or request sensitive information.

Campus Police did not immediately return a phone message.

Contact news editor Helaine Ridilla at helaine.ridilla@richmond.edu