The IC3 warns consumers of recently reported spam email containing a fraudulent subpoena notifying recipients they are commanded to appear and testify before a Grand Jury.
The e-mail attempts to appear authentic by containing a court case number, federal code, name and address of a California federal court, court room number, issuing officers’ names, and a court seal. Recipients are directed to click the link provided in the e-mail in order to download and print associated information for their records. If the recipient clicks the link, malicious code is downloaded onto their computer.
The e-mail also contains language threatening recipients with contempt of court charges if they fail to appear. Recipients are also told the subpoena will remain in effect until the court grants a release. As with most spam, the content contains multiple spelling errors.
If you receive this type of notification and are unsure of its authenticity, you should contact the issuing court for validation.
Be aware; if you receive an unsolicited e-mail, especially from an unknown sender, it is recommended you do not open it. If you do open the e-mail, do not click any embedded links, as they may contain a virus or malware.
If you have received an e-mail similar to this, please file a complaint at www.ic3.gov.
Prepared by the
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
April 17, 2008
