This grant scam impersonates a Canadian non-profit research organization and specifically targets UVic students by claiming to offer monetary grants to students. The attachment even includes MITACS and UVic logos to make the offer look more legitimate. However, there several signs that this is a scam:
- The email came from a Gmail address–UVic or MITACS would send real grant notices from their organizational email email addresses, not using a free email provider.
- The email says you were specifically selected based on your performance, but the email is addressed impersonally.
- The formatting issues within the email and missing signature block give it a less-than-professional look.
- The attachment directs you to apply by contacting a phone number with an American area code. If you are told to apply by SMS, it’s probably a scam. It also uses language that creates a sense of urgency to get you to act hastily.
If you replied to the scammer, contact the Computer Help Desk or your department’s IT support person immediately for assistance.
From: MITACS GLOBALINK <o*******2001@gmail.com>
Subject: CONGRATULATIONS!Attachment: [PDF] MITACS STUDENT GRANT SCHEME.pdf
You don’t often get email from o*******2001@gmail.com. Learn why this is important
MITACS STUDENT GRANT SCHEME
To whom it may concern We are delighted to offer you a grant to support your academic, personal use and research endeavors at University of Victoria (UVic).
You were selected based on your academic performance and potential to make meaningful contributions in your research aspect.
Find the attached details,