Politics & Government

Beware of Email Scam Posing as Eviction Notice

Montgomery County authorities warn residents not to open email attachments if they don't know the sender. A recent phony eviction email likely contained a virus seeking financial information.

Scammers have sent tried accessing Montgomery County residents’ financial data by sending an email attachment – likely with a virus – that poses as an eviction notice.

The county’s Office of Consumer Protection says a homeowner recently received an email from a scammer claiming to be a court bailiff. The email said the resident was required to vacate the premises and the tenancy of the premises (lease) will be terminated. If he did not comply, he would face legal action.

The scammer included a “summary court statement” as an attachment to the email. Authorities said the attachment was most likely a virus or Trojan horse that could download onto the victim’s computer. Downloading these unsafe attachments gives scammers access to data files and critical financial information.

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This consumer contacted the consumer protection office instead of opening the attachment.

If you receive a similar email, do not download any attachments. Authorities say only download attachments from people and verified companies that you know and trust.

If you know about a new scam in the area, call the  Anonymous Tip Line at 240-777-3681. If you have been scammed, call or e-mail us to talk to investigators between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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