DHS Warns of ‘Tragedy-Related Scams’ After El Paso and Dayton Shootings

DHS Warns of ‘Tragedy-Related Scams’ After El Paso and Dayton Shootings

A Homeland Security agency and the FBI’s El Paso office are cautioning Americans to watch out for malicious "charity" emails and phone call scams.

The Department of Homeland Security is warning Americans to watch out for scams and malware campaigns related to the mass shootings last weekend in El Paso, Texas and Dayton, Ohio that killed over 30 people and injured dozens more.

The department’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued the warning on Tuesday, advising users to avoid possible “malicious cyber activity seeking to capitalize on these tragic events.”

“Users should exercise caution in handling emails related to the shootings, even if they appear to originate from trusted sources,” the agency wrote. “Fraudulent emails often contain links or attachments that direct users to phishing or malware-infected websites.”

The statement noted that emails requesting donations from “duplicitous” charitable organizations are common after tragedies. Users should be wary not only of fraudulent emails but also social media pleas, calls, texts, websites and door-to-door solicitations related to the shootings, the agency said.

The warning came as the FBI’s El Paso office issued its own alert cautioning against “unscrupulous individuals” who may be contacting victims’ families claiming to be from a funeral home or medical examiner’s office. Despite the fact that all funeral services are being coordinated through Operation H.O.P.E. El Paso, the callers are asking for money to provide services for families’ loved ones, the FBI said.

“It’s likely a scam,” the bureau posted on Twitter. “If you receive such a call, please get as much information from the caller as possible, DO NOT give them any money, and contact the El Paso Police Department or FBI El Paso.”

Colin Bastable, the CEO of security awareness training company Lucy Security, advises Americans to treat all emails regarding the tragedy with “guarded skepticism,” particularly emails that appeal for money or ask users to sign petitions.

“By appealing to group loyalties and emotional responses such as fear and anger, hackers increase their hit rates,” Bastable said. “In that way, they are exploiting the same marketing techniques that some politicians are deploying to fundraise off the back of these and similar events.”

About the Author

Haley Samsel is an Associate Content Editor for the Infrastructure Solutions Group at 1105 Media.

Featured

  • Using Modern Technology

    Using Modern Technology

    Workplace violence is a serious and growing challenge for many organizations — including those in the healthcare industry. Read Now

  • The Core Value Proposition

    The Core Value Proposition

    Machine and deep learning algorithms are everywhere in our lives. Masquerading as AI, they are only in their infancy. Have a conversation with a ChatGPT chatbot, and it becomes clear just how far we have come in a short time and how far we have to go. Read Now

  • Progressing in Capabilities

    Progressing in Capabilities

    Hazardous areas within industries like oil and gas, manufacturing, agriculture and the like, have long-sought reliable video surveillance cameras and equipment that can operate safely in these harsh and unpredictable environments. Read Now

  • A Comprehensive Nationwide Solution

    A Comprehensive Nationwide Solution

    Across the United States, manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, truck yards, parking lots and car dealerships all have a common concern. They are targets for catalytic converters. In nearly every region, cases of catalytic converter thefts have skyrocketed. Read Now

Featured Cybersecurity

New Products

  • QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    The latest Qualcomm® Vision Intelligence Platform offers next-generation smart camera IoT solutions to improve safety and security across enterprises, cities and spaces. The Vision Intelligence Platform was expanded in March 2022 with the introduction of the QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC), which delivers superior artificial intelligence (AI) inferencing at the edge. 3

  • Dahua 2-Wire IP Video Intercom System

    Dahua 2-Wire IP Video Intercom System

    Dahua Technology is introducing a new line of expandable 2-wire IP video intercom solutions for the North America market. The New 2-wire IP video intercom is more advanced, cost effective, and designed to help businesses increase their security. 3

  • D-Tools System Integrator (SI) Software

    D-Tools System Integrator (SI) Software

    D-Tools Inc. has announced the availability of System Integrator version 16, which adds powerful new project and service management capabilities to its award-winning, end-to-end business management solution. 3