Scammers are at it again! A new email con uses Google Docs to disguise a phishing scam. These emails appear to be recruiting you for a new job opportunity, but they are really a way to harvest your password.
How the Scam Works:
You receive an email that seems to come from a human resources professional recruiting you for a position at his/her company. The email seems very professional, with a company logo, signature block and reply email address. According to the message, the HR representative found your resume on LinkedIn and would like you to take a look at the job description. To view this info, just click a link to a Google Doc.
Don’t do it! Scammers are using Google Drive to hide a phishing scam. They create a folder inside a Google Drive account, mark it as public and upload a phishing program. When you click on the link, it looks like you are being prompted to log into your Google account. However, it’s really a phishing con meant to grab your email and password.
How to Spot This Scam
- Be wary of unexpected emails that contain links or attachments. As always, do not click on links or open files in unfamiliar emails.
- Don’t believe what you see. Just because an email looks real, doesn’t mean it is. Scammers can fake anything from a company logo to the sent email address.
- Check the company’s website. Businesses typically post job information on their websites, not on Google Drive.
- Be cautious of generic emails. Scammers try to cast a wide net by including little or no specific information in their fake emails. Always be wary of messages that seem overly general. If a recruiter was really emailing you, he/she should have your name and job title.
For More Information
To find out more about other scams, check out BBB Scam Stopper (bbb.org/scam). To learn more about this phishing scam, read this alert from LinkedIn.
Help BBB Fight Scams
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This Scam Alert has been sponsored by Western Union, a BBB National Partner.