Musical Instrument Scams

Cybersecurity, News

UWM has recently seen a unique type of scam involving musical instruments.

Here is what to look out for with musical instrument scams:

  • A scammer will email you with some information about musical instruments that are available for free or for purchase.
  • If the instrument is being promised for free, the scammer will ask that you pay for shipping fees.
  • The scammer will ask that you respond to the email or text privately to plan for the musical instrument to be sent to you.

The following is an example of a musical instrument scam:

Image of a musical instrument scam. The subject line says, "GIVEAWAY DOWN-SIZING MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS AND ITEMS." The body of the email says, "Dear recipient, Mrs. Dorothy is currently making arrangements to relocate and she’s looking to give away her late husband’s music instruments to interested students and staff. The instruments available are as follows: -Violin: Yamaha AV7-44SG -Camera: Leica S (TyR 006) Digital SLR Camera -Guitar: Eric Clapton’s Martin OOO-42 -Piano: 2014 Steinways and Sons with foldable legs (can fit in a door size) If you are interested in any of these instruments, please text Mrs. Dorothy privately at +1(708)312-8129. However, please only reach out if you are capable of covering the delivery fees for the item. Once you contact Mrs. Dorothy, provide your address and the required shipping fee to facilitate the delivery process. Please note that the items are free, and there is no pickup option available due to Mrs. Dorothy’s current situation. The shipping fee may range between $100 and $500, depending on your location. Thank you for your attention. Best regards, Mrs. Dorothy’s Assistant"

What to do if you receive a musical instrument scam:

  • Do not respond to these requests.
  • If you believe you have received a musical instrument scam in your inbox, or are unsure, forward the email to UWM’s Information Security team at abuse@uwm.edu. This notifies our information security experts, and they can help you determine if the email is a scam.
  • If you receive a musical instrument request from someone you know, contact them in an alternate way, and confirm if they sent the email. Do not respond to any phone numbers listed in the email.
  • If you believe you have fallen victim to a musical instrument scam, please contact the UWM Help Desk.

For more information about cybersecurity, visit UWM’s Cybersecurity website.