We got hit in a similar way. They didn't use HR's account to email but they grabbed the mobile phone numbers of everyone in the directory. They then started a text message campaign, pretending to be our CEO, demanding that employees go to Target and buy gift cards on behalf of a client.
One person actually did fall for it but decided to physically bring the cards to the CEOs office. Thankfully that exposed the attack and effectively halted any damage done.
i've noticed the gift card stands at Target and other stores around here now have a sign stating "If you received a text from your boss telling you to buy gift cards, you are being scammed" or similar
One person actually did fall for it but decided to physically bring the cards to the CEOs office. Thankfully that exposed the attack and effectively halted any damage done.
These criminals are relatively clever.