New Cybersecurity Threats to Watch For

The Department of Information Technology is alerting the Seton Hall community to new cyber threats making headlines. In just the past few weeks, two major incidents have drawn national attention: a sophisticated scam draining victims’ bank accounts and a massive data breach at TransUnion.

Cybercrime is constantly evolving, with schemes targeting both individuals and organizations. By staying alert to warning signs and taking proactive precautions, the Seton Hall community can better protect themselves against identity theft and financial loss.

Here’s what you need to know about these threats and how to protect yourself:

FBI Warns of Scam Draining Bank Accounts

The FBI has issued an alert about the "Phantom Hacker" scam, a sophisticated scheme where attackers pose as tech support, bank employees and even government officials. Victims are pressured to grant access to their computers and eventually transfer money into accounts controlled by scammers.

How to recognize this scam early:

• Unsolicited contact: Unexpected calls, emails or pop-ups that appear to come from a bank, government agency or tech support.

• Urgent language: Messages that pressure you to act immediately to "protect" your money or account.

• False instructions: Being told to transfer funds to a "safe account" which is actually controlled by scammers.

• Requests for access: Asked to install software, share login details or allow remote connection to your computer.

TransUnion Data Breach Exposes 4.4 Million

Credit reporting agency TransUnion has disclosed a breach that exposed names, birth dates and Social Security numbers of 4.4 million customers. While credit files themselves were not accessed, the stolen details are enough to commit identity theft.

What you can do to protect yourself:

• Monitor credit reports: Check regularly for inquiries or accounts you don’t recognize.

• Place alerts: Consider setting up fraud alerts or a credit freeze with the major credit bureaus.

• Watch for suspicious mail: Be alert for unexpected bills, collection notices or tax documents.

• File early: Submit your taxes as soon as possible to reduce the chance of fraudulent filings in your name.

Proactive Steps to Protect Your Accounts

As scams become more sophisticated and widespread, Seton Hall community members are urged to take proactive steps to reduce their risk of falling victim to cybercrime. Staying vigilant, securing accounts and reporting suspicious activity all help protect personal information, financial assets and institutional systems from evolving threats.

• Be cautious: No Seton Hall staff member will ever ask you for your password.

• Strengthen security: Update passwords, enable 2FA and review account activity regularly.

• Safeguard personal data: Never share Social Security numbers, banking credentials or login details by phone or email.

• Spot phishing: Look closely at links, sender addresses and urgent language before clicking.

• Report issues: Submit a ticket immediately at servicedesk.shu.edu if you receive suspicious emails or believe your account is compromised.

• Report suspicious activity. Contact the Department of Information Technology by submitting a service desk ticket on the Technology Service Desk portal if you receive suspicious emails or believe your account may be compromised.

Categories: Science and Technology