Next time you check your emails, be on high alert for these worrying new messages.
Scammers are back and this time they are trying to trick UK users with messages claiming that their PCs are at risk. The new alert has been issued by the team at Action Fraud after thousands of people reported being targeted by these new fake emails.
The messages, which have been flooding inboxes since last month, suggest that vital anti-virus software has expired and urgent action is needed to make sure personal data stays safe.
So that things appear even more real, the messages suggest they have been sent from trusted brand McAfee who is one of the biggest security firms in the world.
“Watch out for these FAKE McAfee emails,” Action Fraud said in a post on X (Formerly Twitter ).
If you receive anything from McAfee that suggests you need to take action to keep your subscription live you need to be on high alert before clicking any links.
“Action Fraud has received 4,531 reports since 1st April 2024 relating to fake emails purporting to be from McAfee,” Action Fraud added.
“The emails state that the recipient’s computer “could be at risk” from “virus and other malware” if they don’t renew their anti-virus subscription. The links in the emails lead to phishing websites that are designed to steal your personal and financial information.”
Although most providers such as Gmail and Yahoo have very good spam detection, some messages can slip through the net which is why it’s vital to stay alert.
McAfee has a whole web page dedicated to the issues of scams. “‌Cybercriminals target individuals through fake emails that look as if they’ve been sent from an established and legitimate company, McAfee explained.
“Their goal is to get you to reveal your private and sensitive information like your credit card details, date of birth and more. You can forward suspicious emails to [email protected].”
There’s some other pretty simple advice to stay safe. “If you have doubts about a message, contact the organisation directly,” Action Fraud said.
“Don’t use numbers or addresses in the message – use the details from their official website. Your bank (or any other official source) will never ask you to supply personal information via email.”
So, keep a close eye on your inbox and take care before replying or believing what’s contained in the message.
