UC Aware

Feb. 1, 2019

Dear UC Community,

Please be aware that UCPD has seen an increase in reports of fraud involving online scams. The scammers typically ask the victim to pay for something with a gift card, sometimes posing as someone with a student loan company or threatening some government action. Scammers may also ask the victim to deposit a check and then send the scammer a portion of the money. After the victim sends money, the check will be determined to be fraudulent.

If you receive an email or a telephone call asking you to purchase gift cards or deposit a check, be skeptical. Follow up with the individual in person or verify with the company by using a reputable phone number. You can also ask UCPD to verify it for you. In addition, check the email address. The name may seem normal, but the actual address may misspell the company name or not make sense.

For more information about scams, please read our Online and Phone Scams webpage, read the Office of Information Security’s Phishing webpage, or contact UCPD at 513-556-1111.

Sincerely,

James L. Whalen

Director, Public Safety