In recent months, we’ve seen a rise in scams often using email addresses to appear legitimate. As a valued client, we want to ensure you’re informed and protected.
Below is a brief overview of what to watch out for and what to do if something doesn’t seem right.
Keeping your email secure
We’ve seen a rise in scammers accessing clients’ personal email accounts to send fraudulent messages — sometimes appearing to come directly from you. Though James Sharp & Co staff are aware of how to identify these scams, it is still important that you are aware of the risks a compromised email account can have to your personal and financial security.
To help protect your information:
- Use a strong, unique password – Avoid using the same password across multiple sites.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on email accounts – This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code sent to your phone.
- Watch for suspicious emails – Be cautious with unexpected links or attachments, even from known contacts.
- Check your email account regularly – Look for unfamiliar sent emails or login activity.
- Keep your devices updated – Use antivirus software and install updates when prompted.
If you think your email has been compromised:
- Change your password immediately.
- Let us know so we can verify any recent instructions.
- Contact your email provider for help securing your account.
We’re here to assist if you need help with any of the above. Just get in touch with your usual contact at James Sharp & Co.
Fake or “lookalike” email addresses
Scammers are also increasingly using email addresses that almost match real email addresses or closely imitate them – sometimes changing just a single character or domain to make them hard to spot at first glance. These emails may appear to come from someone you know or trust, including other investors or even representatives from a firm like ours.
They may:
- Ask you to transfer funds or provide account information
- Encourage you to click on suspicious links or open attachments
- Pretend to follow up on a legitimate investment conversation
What to watch for:
- Spelling errors or odd formatting in the email address
- Unusual requests for urgency, payment, or personal details
- Unexpected links or attachments, even if the message “looks right”
How to stay safe:
If you receive an email that seems unusual – even if it appears to come from us or another known party – don’t click on anything. Instead, contact us directly using the phone number or email address you normally use.