Electronic filing scam targets attorneys in Federal courts
Attorneys across the country are being targeted with fake electronic filing notifications, in which emails purporting to come from the federal Judiciary’s Case Management/Electronic Case Files (CM/ECF) system lead recipients to a malicious website with computer viruses.
According to the IT Security Office for the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, the fake Notices of Electronic Filing prompt recipients to reply immediately. Recipients are then sent an email containing a link to access fake case documents that direct users to a malicious website.
To avoid becoming a victim of the scam, the office advices lawyers be sure to always validate cases and case documentation directly through their local federal court’s CM/ECF system. Never download attachments or click on links from unofficial or questionable sources.
If you receive a suspicious email regarding a federal court case, contact the federal court in your jurisdiction before opening any attachments or links.
Visit the federal court scams page for more information about scams targeting people who interact with the federal courts.
