It’s tax season in many countries, and cybercriminals are trying to take advantage of this. In this month’s scam, cybercriminals are targeting Pakistani taxpayers. They are sending phishing emails containing attachments that appear to be official tax documents. The email includes an attachment that appears to be an official tax form from the Pakistani government.
Opening this fake file will install malware on your computer. The malware uses Microsoft Management Console (MSC) files, which can be used to run scheduled tasks on your computer. Because the malware uses scheduled tasks, it can stay active for a long time, even if you reboot your computer. This malware will infect your computer, gather your sensitive information, and steal your data. Your taxes won’t be paid, but the cybercriminals will!
Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to a malware phishing scam:
- Avoid downloading attachments from unexpected emails. Only download attachments and documents from sources you trust.
- This attack targets Pakistani taxpayers, but remember that cybercriminals can use similar methods to target residents of any country.
- Always access and download tax-related forms from official financial or government websites. When in doubt, visit an official tax-related website.
Source: Alphastar Capital Management Security Team
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Megan Jones joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as marketing director. Megan and her husband live in Fredericksburg, VA with their German Short Haired Pointer, Gus. Megan is a graduate of Longwood University and holds a degree in communications. Megan is the oldest of Dave Lopez’s three children and not only enjoys working alongside her father, but also with her cousin, Chase, who joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as an advisor. Megan is also a fully licensed Life, Health, and Annuity agent. When not at work, Megan enjoys sitting on the back porch with family and friends enjoying food and music.
Amy Anderson joined the ILG Financial team in 2023 as the client relations coordinator. Her responsibilities include scheduling of appointments, annual check-up notifications, and annuity and required minimum distribution assistance. She is a graduate of Harding University with a degree in Computer Information Systems. Amy and her husband have two children and she enjoys reading, crocheting, music and spending time with her family.
Terri Center joined the ILG Financial team in 2019 as client services manager. She handles client records, application processing, and gathering information to provide a professional and friendly experience with all of our clients. Terri is a graduate of Oakland University. She is married and has two children. She enjoys hiking, family time, and puzzle challenging video games. She also likes to share her creativity in her canvas paintings and sewing projects.
Jessica Carson joined the ILG Financial team in 2018 as an agent. Jessica and her husband have four children, two dogs, 3 barn cats, 5 chickens, and three parakeets. She indeed loves her children and pets! When not at work, Jessica enjoys playing the piano and cello as well as traveling and spending time outside with her family, hiking, fishing, and boating.
Chase Lopez joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as an advisor. Chase is a 2016 James Madison University graduate with a degree in management. Chase has been trained under the tutelage of Dave Lopez, who is not only the founder and managing member of ILG Financial, but also is Chase’s uncle and godfather. He also enjoys working alongside his cousin, Megan, who is Dave’s daughter.