Multiple spelling errors
Poor grammar
Government agency names
Signatures of officials and titles to appear authentic
Warning for failure to comply.

"E-mail scammers are looking for every opportunity to steal your money and personal information. These criminals are increasingly attempting to do this by falsely claiming to be various government officials. Don't respond, don't open the attachments, and don't send your money or personal information. We are asking people to be aware of this tactic and to report incidents to IC3," said Special Agent Richard Kolko, Washington, DC.

Everyone should consider the following:

Do not respond to unsolicited (SPAM) e-mail.

Be skeptical of individuals representing themselves as officials soliciting personal information via e-mail.

Do not click on links contained within an unsolicited e-mail.

Be cautious of e-mail claiming to contain pictures in attached files, as the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.

Validate the legitimacy of the organization by directly accessing the organization's website rather than following an alleged link to the site.

Do not provide personal or financial information to anyone who solicits information

To receive the latest information about cyber scams please go to the FBI website and sign up for e-mail alerts by clicking on one of the red envelopes. If you have received a scam e-mail please notify IC3 by filing a complaint at http://www.ic3.gov/.