In today’s digital age, email scams are becoming more and more common. One such scam that has been circulating recently is the “C&K STEEL COMPANY” email scam. This fraudulent email is designed to look like a legitimate business inquiry but contains malicious attachments that can infect your device if opened.
This article will provide an in-depth overview of how the C&K STEEL COMPANY scam works, how to identify it, the malicious attachments it contains, the risks of infection, and most importantly, what you should do if you receive this email or have fallen victim to this scam. With online threats continually evolving, awareness and education are key to protecting yourself.
Scam Overview
The C&K STEEL COMPANY scam email is presented as an inquiry about purchasing metals or steel products from the recipient’s company. The message will contain some variation of the following:
Dear Sir,
I am Phil Lambert, Sales Manager from C&K STEEL COMPANY.
Our customer is in urgent need of your products as seen on your website.
Please find attached our inquiry on METALS for your reference.
Kindly quote your best prices with date of delivery.
Thanks and Best Regards,
Phil Lambert
C&K STEEL COMPANY
This email is designed to look like a legitimate prospective customer reaching out for a quote. However, C&K STEEL COMPANY does not actually exist. The email address will use a domain that is designed to imitate a real steel company. The message is short and vague, with an attachment that supposedly contains more order details.
If the recipient opens the attached document, their computer will become infected with malware. The malware payload can include spyware, adware, ransomware, cryptojacking software, or other threats. The attackers then gain access to the victim’s system for monetary gain or to steal sensitive data.
Some signs that this is a scam:
Generic greeting like “Dear Sir” instead of using your name or company
Poor grammar and spelling errors
Attachment with a generic name like “Inquiry.zip”
Sender email does not match legitimate domain
Requests urgent action but provides few details
This scam takes advantage of people’s willingness to open attachments from what appears to be a prospective customer. But the attachment contains nothing useful and will only lead to the victim’s device becoming infected.
Anatomy of the Scam Email
Let’s break down the components of what makes this a scam:
The Sender
The email purports to be from someone named Phil Lambert, a Sales Manager at C&K STEEL COMPANY. However, research indicates no legitimate steel company exists by this name. The sender email will use a domain name meant to imitate a real steel or manufacturing company.
The Content
The body of the email is vague, containing no specific details about what steel products are needed or in what quantities. This is meant to get the recipient to open the attachment for more information. There is an urgency implied about fulfilling a customer order, to compel quick action.
The Attachment
The referenced attachment is usually named something generic like “Inquiry.zip.” Its sole purpose is to deliver malware to infect the victim’s system. The zip file likely contains an executable file that installs the malware when opened. The malware can then compromise the system and give the attackers remote access.
The Motive
The end goal is to infect as many computer systems as possible and gain access either to steal sensitive data or install malware that generates revenue for the attackers. The malware may steal login credentials, financial information, or encrypt files for ransom (ransomware). Or it may turn the computer into a cryptomining bot or force it to display unwanted ads (adware).
How the Scam Works
Now let’s look at the detailed stages of how the C&K STEEL COMPANY scam unfolds:
1. You Receive the Email
The scam email arrives in your inbox just like any other business inquiry. The subject “STEEL INQUIRY” is vague enough that most recipients would open the email to see what it’s regarding.
When you open it, the message appears to be an inquiry about purchasing steel products from your company. The sender identifies themselves as Phil Lambert, Sales Manager for C&K STEEL COMPANY.
There are no other specifics provided in the brief email message. You are directed to open the attached document for more details about the supposed order.
2. You Open the Malicious Attachment
Wanting more information, you proceed to open the attached ZIP file, named something like “Inquiry.zip.”
Inside is usually an executable file, but could also be a PDF, Word doc, or other file format. Opening this attachment triggers the infection chain.
Some signs that the attachment is malicious:
Generic name like “Inquiry.zip” rather than a descriptive name
Contains an executable (.exe) or unexpected file type inside
Originates from an email with vague details
3. Infection Chain Initiated
By opening the attachment, you have activated the malware payload. This begins a series of events designed to infect your computer and grant the attackers remote access.
The infection chain may involve:
Executable file running and installing malware/viruses
Exploit kits unleashing zero-day attacks
Downloading additional payloads from external sites
Modifying system settings to disable security
Connecting to command and control servers
You may not notice anything immediately. The malware runs silently in the background, taking over crucial system processes and settings.
4. Payload Effects Take Hold
Once the malware is firmly entrenched in the system, the damaging effects of the payload become apparent. Possible consequences include:
Loss of sensitive data like credit cards, passwords, etc.
Ransomware encrypting files and demanding payment
System resources consumed for cryptojacking
PC rendered unstable, crashes frequently
Personal information theft leading to identity fraud
Adware bombarding you with pop-ups
Computer added to botnet for future attacks
The attackers now have remote access to spy on activity, steal data, or leverage the infected computer’s resources for their own financial gain.
5. Attackers Achieve Their Goals
The malware payload continues communicating with command servers to send stolen data or await further instructions.
With information and access harvested from thousands of infected computers, the attackers may:
Sell stolen personal and financial data on the dark web
Use banking credentials to commit fraud or launder money
Hold files for ransom from ransomware victims
Use botnets to mine cryptocurrency or conduct denial-of-service attacks
Continually develop viruses to attack more targets
For you, the victim, the costs can include lost data, stolen identities, unauthorized bank transactions, and an unstable or unusable computer.
How to Identify This Scam
Here are some tips for identifying and avoiding this scam:
Scrutinize sender email addresses for legitimacy
Watch for generic greetings and poor grammar
Verify company names aren’t associated with other scams
Check message headers and domain registrars
Hovers over hyperlinks to inspect destinations
Open attachments only from trusted sources
Scan attachments with antivirus software first
Enable macros cautiously or not at all
Keep software patched and updated
Use email filters to block dangerous extensions
With vigilance and awareness, you can hopefully prevent infection and avoid becoming a victim.
What to Do if You Have Fallen Victim
If you have unfortunately been tricked by the C&K STEEL COMPANY scam, here are some important steps to take right away:
1. Disconnect from Networks
Immediately disconnect the infected computer from any network it’s on. Unplug from wired connections and disable Wi-Fi. This stops the malware from spreading or communicating further.
2. Run Anti-Malware Scans
Run full virus scans using updated security software from vendors like Malwarebytes and ESET. Quarantine or delete anything suspicious found. This may eliminate some of the infection.
3. Change Passwords
Assume your credentials have been compromised. Change passwords on email, banking, social media, and other sensitive accounts. Make them long and complex. Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
4. Contact Banks and Credit Bureaus
If banking information or accounts may have been accessed, contact your bank to report unauthorized activity and have fraudulent charges reversed. Also reach out to credit bureaus to monitor for identity theft.
5. Wipe Hard Drive and Reinstall OS
The most thorough way to disinfect is wiping the hard drive completely and reinstalling the operating system. Backup important data externally first. This essentially resets the computer to a clean state.
6. Inform Contacts
Alert business contacts that they may have received malware from your compromised email account. Warn friends about potential phishing attempts using your info.
7. Monitor Accounts Closely
Carefully scrutinize financial statements, credit reports, and account activity for any suspicious transactions for the next several months. Report anything abnormal to authorities. Signs of identity theft can take time to manifest.
8. Bring in Expert Help
For major infections, bring the computer to IT security professionals for analysis and data recovery. If identity theft occurs, engage lawyers to ensure rights and protections. Law enforcement may need to get involved.
9. Learn from the Experience
In the aftermath, learn how to strengthen security and be more alert to warning signs of phishing scams. Educate yourself on malware risks and prevention best practices. Be especially cautious when opening email attachments going forward.
With prompt action, malware infections can hopefully be contained and not lead to lasting damage. But it’s still crucial to have a plan in case you accidentally open a malicious attachment in a convincing scam email.
Is Your Device Infected? Scan for Malware
If your computer or phone is slow, showing unwanted pop-ups, or acting strangely, malware could be the cause. Running a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is one of the most reliable ways to detect and remove harmful software. The free version can identify and clean common infections such as adware, browser hijackers, trojans, and other unwanted programs.
Malwarebytes works on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Choose your operating system below and follow the steps to scan your device and remove any malware that might be slowing it down.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.
Download Malwarebytes
Download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows using the official link below. Malwarebytes will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software for free.
(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)
Install Malwarebytes
After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.
You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
Enable “Rootkit scanning”.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.
To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Quarantine detected malware
Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
Restart your computer.
When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.
Once the scan completes, remove all detected threats. Your Windows computer should now be clean and running smoothly again, free of trojans, adware, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.
You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “Continue“, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.
The Malwarebytes Welcome screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
Click on “Scan”.
To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Quarantine”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
After scanning, delete any detected threats. Your Mac should now be free from adware, unwanted extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
When the scan is finished, remove all detected threats. Your Android phone should now be free of malicious apps, adware, and unwanted browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
After cleaning your device, it’s important to protect it from future infections and annoying pop-ups. We recommend installing an ad blocker such as AdGuard. AdGuard blocks malicious ads, prevents phishing attempts, and stops dangerous redirects, helping you stay safe while browsing online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the C&K STEEL COMPANY email scam?
This is a phishing scam where victims receive an email pretending to be an inquiry from C&K STEEL COMPANY. The email contains a malicious attachment that infects the recipient’s computer with malware if opened.
How does the scam email work?
The email is made to look like a business customer is requesting a quote for a steel order. It asks the recipient to open the attached document for more details. The attachment is malware disguised as a Word doc, PDF, executable file, etc.
What happens if I open the attachment?
Opening the attachment enables malware to silently install on your computer. This gives attackers remote access to steal data, install more malware, or otherwise compromise the infected system.
What types of malware might it install?
Possible malware payloads include spyware, ransomware, trojans, viruses, cryptojacking scripts, adware, and more. The malware can also make your computer part of a botnet.
What are the risks if my computer is infected?
Risks include identity theft, bank fraud, stolen passwords, encrypted files held ransom, hardware damage, and unauthorized use of your computer resources.
How can I identify this scam email?
Look for vague messages from unknown senders, spoofed email addresses, suspicious attachments like “Inquiry.zip”, typos, and urgency to open attachments right away.
What should I do if I open the attachment?
Immediately disconnect your computer from networks, run anti-malware scans, change account passwords, check for fraudulent activity, and consider wiping your hard drive to reinstall the OS.
Should I report this scam or attachment? Who to?
Yes, report the phishing scam to your email provider and relevant cybersecurity authorities. You can also report the attachment to your antivirus vendor.
How can I protect myself from this scam in the future?
Be wary of all unsolicited attachments, verify sender addresses, hover over hyperlinks to inspect destinations, use antivirus software, keep software updated, and avoid enabling macros.
What should businesses do to avoid this scam?
Educate employees on phishing techniques, implement email security filters, require two-factor authentication, use endpoint detection tools, develop incident response plans, and keep backups current.
Conclusion
The C&K STEEL COMPANY scam email highlights the ongoing threat that social engineering and malware attacks pose in today’s interconnected world. While this scam takes the form of posing as a customer inquiry, phishing emails use many guises to fool victims into infecting their own devices.
Being aware of the tactics and techniques used in these scams is key to recognizing and avoiding them. Indicators like poor grammar, urgent requests for action, and dubious attachments from unknown senders should all raise red flags. Never open attachments unless you can verify the source as legitimate first.
If you unfortunately do fall victim and a device becomes infected, have a response plan ready to limit damage. Quickly disconnect from networks, run anti-malware scans, change account credentials, monitor for identity theft, and contact authorities for assistance as needed.
With vigilance and education, individuals and businesses can stay several steps ahead of constantly adapting cybercriminal schemes. Always err on the side of caution when assessing emails, especially those containing attachments. A bit of added scrutiny and skepticism can go a long way in protecting yourself and your data.
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
