TCSO Warns Of Latest Phishing And Malware Email Scam

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Tuscaloosa County Sheriff's Office (TCSO) is warning the public of a phishing and malware email scam.

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TCSO says scammers are contacting individuals via email, using images pulled from Google to make their threats seem credible.

The scam emails also claim to know personal details, such as the potential victim's address, before threatening to expose the target for alleged online activities unless they are paid.

TCSO said this is an attempt at extortion and provided the following tips for how to handle such a situation:

• Do not respond. Engaging with the scammers can make you more vulnerable.
• Do not click on any links or download attachments. These could contain malware designed to steal your personal information.
• Report the email. Flag it as spam or phishing in your email service.
• Stay vigilant. Legitimate organizations will never contact you in this manner.

Potential victims of the scam or those with questions are asked to contact the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office at (205) 752-0616.

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