Community Notification: Scam Information

10/18/2021

To Our UAlbany Community:

The University has seen an increase in the number of “catfishing” phone call, text message and social media scams. Some of these incidents have resulted in victimizing our UAlbany community members. These perpetrators use fraud, extortion and in certain cases threaten the dissemination of unlawful images if they are not paid a specified amount of money. These scams have resulted in identity theft, the loss of personal data and money.

You can help us keep you safe by:

1. Ensuring that the individual/company you are communicating with is legitimate prior to releasing any personal information including, data or images.
2. Using discretion when accepting new friend requests or random social media messages from people you do not know.
3. Being very careful who you send photos and personal information to.
4. Immediately blocking anyone who suspiciously contacts you.
5. Ensuring that any request for money transfers is for a valid purchase that you are familiar with and authorize. No legitimate individual/company will ask you to pay in gift cards of any sort.

We are here to serve as a resource. If you have any questions or have been a victim of any of these types of crimes, contact:

UPD at 518-442-3131 and/or the Office of Equity and Compliance at 518-442-3800 for assistance.

Stay safe,

Paul C. Burlingame

Chief of Police

Amelia Barbadoro, J.D, Ph.D   

Director & Title IX Coordinator, Office of Equity and Compliance