{"id":383295,"date":"2026-02-27T03:21:11","date_gmt":"2026-02-27T03:21:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/?p=383295"},"modified":"2026-02-27T03:21:24","modified_gmt":"2026-02-27T03:21:24","slug":"frances-patrick-connolly-gift-email-scam-exposed-investigation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/frances-patrick-connolly-gift-email-scam-exposed-investigation\/","title":{"rendered":"Frances &amp; Patrick Connolly Gift Email Scam EXPOSED  &#8211; Investigation"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You are checking email, half-distracted, and a subject line jumps out at you: <strong>Congratulations!<\/strong> You have been selected for a financial gift of <strong>$550,000.00<\/strong> from \u201cFrances &amp; Patrick Connolly,\u201d described as lottery jackpot winners running a charitable foundation.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1362161754\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309684--placement_360520\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3957935887\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a split second, it feels possible. Maybe it is real. Maybe this is the kind of story people talk about for years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then the doubts start. Why you? Why email? Why does it sound polished, but also strangely vague?<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2542812528\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381396-ad_309691-placement_360566\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1471373341\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That uneasy feeling is doing its job. This message is built to get you to respond, and once you do, the scam can begin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"594\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/scam-1-2-1024x594.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-383296\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/scam-1-2-1024x594.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/scam-1-2-300x174.jpg 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/scam-1-2-860x499.jpg 860w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/scam-1-2.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad1185254596\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309746-ad_309691-placement_360521\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"4456629336\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Scam Overview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The \u201cFrances &amp; Patrick Connolly Gift Email Scam\u201d is a classic <strong>advance-fee and identity theft<\/strong> setup wrapped in a feel-good story. The email claims you have been \u201cselected\u201d to receive a large cash gift, often <strong>$100,000 to $1,000,000<\/strong>, from a \u201cfoundation\u201d connected to well-known lottery winners. The goal is not to give you money. The goal is to get you to engage, then pressure you into handing over personal information and eventually paying fake fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The version you shared follows a familiar script:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2041913937\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309686-ad_309691-placement_360569\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6935453015\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A big, specific amount: <strong>$550,000.00<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A credibility anchor: \u201cwinners of the 2019 Powerball Jackpot of $145.6 million\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A charitable frame: \u201ccommunity support programs\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A soft call to action: \u201cPlease respond\u2026 for the next steps\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A signature meant to sound official: \u201cConnolly Foundation\u00a9\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why the names feel convincing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers often borrow names from real people to reduce skepticism. Frances and Patrick Connolly are widely reported lottery winners from the UK and Ireland, known publicly after a major EuroMillions win.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That public recognition is exactly why scammers like using their names. It gives the email a quick shortcut to credibility: \u201cYou can Google them and see they exist.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In fact, warnings about scammers <strong>impersonating the Connollys<\/strong> have appeared in local reporting.  <\/p><div id=\"mwtad1829522607\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381401-ad_309691-placement_360573\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5315249587\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Powerball detail is a red flag<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your email claims the Connollys won a <strong>Powerball<\/strong> jackpot. That detail is a common scam tactic: mix a real name with a mismatched lottery brand, year, or jackpot figure. Many recipients will not know the difference, and the scammer is counting on that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is also common for lottery scams to piggyback on Powerball branding because it is globally recognizable. Official lottery organizations have repeatedly warned the public about fake emails and social media messages claiming to be jackpot winners.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What this scam is really selling<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This scam is not selling a \u201cgift.\u201d It is selling a process.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2385233643\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381404-ad_309691-placement_381406\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8735619847\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The email invites you into a storyline where there are \u201csteps,\u201d \u201cverification,\u201d and \u201cdocumentation.\u201d That process is where the fraud happens. Once you respond, you are no longer just reading an email. You have become a live lead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From there, the scam usually heads toward one or more of these outcomes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Advance fees<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You are told the gift is real, but you must pay something first: \u201cprocessing,\u201d \u201clegal,\u201d \u201ctax,\u201d \u201ccourier,\u201d \u201cinsurance,\u201d \u201ccustoms,\u201d or \u201crelease\u201d fees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This is the defining pattern of prize and lottery scams. If you must pay to get the money, it is a scam.  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Identity theft<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The scammer asks for personally identifying information to \u201cregister\u201d you as a beneficiary.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They may ask for:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Full legal name, address, phone number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Date of birth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Photo of your driver\u2019s license or passport<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bank name and account details \u201cfor transfer\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This information can be used to open accounts, apply for credit, or support other fraud.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Payment method steering<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Scammers prefer payment methods that are hard to reverse:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wire transfer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crypto<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gift cards<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Peer-to-peer payment apps<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They may also ask you to send money to a \u201ccourier agent\u201d or \u201cfoundation representative.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Future targeting<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Even if you do not pay, replying confirms your email is active and that you are willing to engage. Many victims report increased scam attempts afterward, including variations of the same theme. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why this scam works on smart people<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These emails do not rely on people being careless. They rely on people being human.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2123923907\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360582-ad_309691-placement_360581\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9971336976\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are the psychological levers the scam pulls, often all at once:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Authority and legitimacy<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Big lottery names, big numbers, \u201cfoundation\u201d language.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Emotional relief<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>$550,000 feels like a solution, not just money.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Low friction<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cJust reply.\u201d No immediate demand. The hook is gentle.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reciprocity<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cWe are helping the community.\u201d People feel less suspicious of generosity than of sales.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Private urgency<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Many versions add \u201ckeep this confidential\u201d or \u201crespond within 24 hours,\u201d which isolates victims and prevents them from seeking advice.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The \u201cfoundation\u201d branding is part of the con<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers frequently invent foundations, grants, and charitable programs because it makes the approach feel noble instead of predatory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may use:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3292502960\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360567-ad_309691-placement_360771\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6224621518\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A fake logo<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A simple website with stock photos<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cCertificate of donation\u201d PDFs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Claims of partnership with banks or government agencies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A copyright symbol \u201c\u00a9\u201d to look official<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">None of that proves legitimacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where this fits in the larger scam landscape<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is a close cousin of several well-documented fraud categories:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Advance-fee schemes<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lottery and sweepstakes scams<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Phishing and identity theft<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Impersonation scams<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The FBI describes advance-fee schemes as a core scam type, built around convincing victims to send money up front in exchange for a larger payoff.  <\/p><div id=\"mwtad1876225249\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360571-ad_309691-placement_360772\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5867729999\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Government and consumer protection agencies have spent years repeating the same rule because it stays true: <strong>real prizes do not require you to pay to get them<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Connolly name is simply the packaging. The underlying fraud is extremely old, and extremely profitable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad2718466318\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309747-ad_309691-placement_360587\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9589536513\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How The Scam Works<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Below is the typical step-by-step path of the Frances &amp; Patrick Connolly \u201cgift\u201d email scam. Not every case includes every step, but the structure is remarkably consistent.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1916167386\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360576-ad_309691-placement_360773\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6594472392\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1: The bait email lands in your inbox<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You receive a message like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cCongratulations!\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cYou have been selected\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cFinancial gift of $550,000.00\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cCommunity support programs\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cPlease respond for next steps\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At this stage, the scammer is trying to achieve one thing: <strong>get a reply<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They keep it vague on purpose. If the email demanded money immediately, more people would delete it. Instead, they start with a friendly tone and a promise.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2461436267\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360583-ad_309691-placement_360774\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8849826992\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here is how the email looks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Congratulations!<br \/>You have been selected to receive a financial gift of $550,000.00 USD from Frances &amp; Patrick Connolly, winners of the 2019 Powerball Jackpot of $145.6 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This initiative is part of our foundation\u2019s ongoing community support programs aimed at assisting individuals around the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Please respond at your convenience so we can provide the next steps in the process. Thank you for your time and participation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sincerely,<br \/>Connolly Foundation\u00a9<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2: You reply, and the scammer confirms you are a \u201cwinner\u201d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you respond, the scammer usually replies quickly, often within hours. They may:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Congratulate you again<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Call you a \u201cbeneficiary\u201d or \u201crecipient\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Assign you a \u201cclaims agent,\u201d \u201cfoundation officer,\u201d or \u201cdelivery coordinator\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide a fake reference number<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad2533828049\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360584-ad_309691-placement_360775\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3952847241\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is a crucial pivot: they move you from a random stranger to a participant in a formal-sounding process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3: \u201cVerification\u201d begins (this is where identity theft starts)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Next comes the justification for collecting your personal information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common lines include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cWe must confirm your identity to prevent fraud\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cFor our foundation records\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cTo register you with the payout department\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cTo prepare the donation certificate\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may ask for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Full name<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Home address<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Phone number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Occupation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Age or date of birth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A scan of your ID<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A selfie holding your ID<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bank details \u201cfor transfer\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you provide these, you have handed a criminal enough information to attempt identity fraud, social engineering, or account takeovers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4: The fee appears (advance-fee trap)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the scammer thinks you are emotionally invested, the tone shifts. Now there is a \u201cproblem\u201d that requires a payment to solve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typical fee excuses:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cTransfer activation fee\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cAnti-money laundering clearance\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cNotarization fee\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cInsurance fee\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cCourier delivery fee\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cTax clearance\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cCustoms duty\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the exact pattern consumer protection guidance warns about: if you have to pay to receive a prize or gift, it is a scam. (<a href=\"https:\/\/consumer.ftc.gov\/node\/78348?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Consumer Advice<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scammer often frames the fee as small compared to the gift, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cJust $150 to release $550,000\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cA one-time $350 processing fee\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201c$500 courier insurance\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many victims pay because it feels like unlocking something that already belongs to them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 5: Payment method steering (they push you toward irreversible options)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers usually steer victims toward payment methods that are difficult to reverse. They may request:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wire transfers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crypto deposits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gift cards<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Money transfer services<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Peer-to-peer apps<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may also tell you to avoid telling your bank the truth, using scripts like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cSay it is for family support\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cSay it is for a personal purchase\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cDo not mention the foundation\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That instruction alone is enough to confirm criminal intent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 6: Fake documents arrive to keep you hooked<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you hesitate, scammers often send \u201cproof.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Donation certificates with seals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Letters on fake letterhead<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bank transfer screenshots<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>IDs of \u201cagents\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shipping receipts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Photos of cash in boxes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some lottery scams go further and impersonate government agencies or investigators to appear legitimate. The FBI has warned about lottery scams that use convincing official-looking documents to pressure victims into paying fees.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These documents are theater. Their job is not to prove anything. Their job is to keep you paying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 7: The fees multiply (the \u201cjust one more step\u201d loop)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After you pay the first fee, the scam rarely ends. Instead, a new problem appears:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The courier is \u201cstopped at customs\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The transfer is \u201cpending clearance\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A \u201crelease code\u201d must be purchased<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insurance must be upgraded<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A \u201cfinal authorization stamp\u201d is needed<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This can continue until:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You run out of money<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You become suspicious<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A bank blocks the transaction<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A family member intervenes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 8: If you stop paying, threats or guilt appear<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When victims try to exit, scammers often switch tactics:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Emotional guilt: \u201cYou are depriving your family of this blessing\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anger: \u201cYou are wasting our time\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Threats: \u201cWe will report you for fraud\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pressure: \u201cThis offer expires today\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is manipulation, not a legitimate philanthropic process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 9: Your information gets reused or sold<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even if you never pay a fee, replying can put you on \u201cactive responder\u201d lists. These lists are valuable in scam networks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why many people notice a surge in:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Lottery scams<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fake bank alerts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tech support popups<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Romance scams<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crypto \u201crecovery\u201d offers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 10: Revictimization scams (the follow-up trap)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A common next phase is that a new \u201chelper\u201d appears, claiming they can recover your lost money. They might pretend to be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A lawyer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A bank investigator<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A cybercrime unit<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A recovery agent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The FBI\u2019s IC3 has warned about scammers impersonating official entities and offering fake recovery services, often targeting people who have already been scammed.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If someone contacts you out of the blue promising to recover funds for a fee, treat it as another scam until proven otherwise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common variants of the Connolly gift email scam<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even if your email mentions $550,000, the same template shows up with many variations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Different amounts: $100,000, $250,000, $1,000,000<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Different stories:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cGrant\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cDonation\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cHumanitarian aid\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cEndowment\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Different delivery methods:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cBank transfer\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cATM card delivery\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cCash delivery\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Different impersonated parties:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Powerball winners<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mega Millions winners<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>EuroMillions winners<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cPhilanthropists\u201d and \u201cfoundations\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lottery organizations have issued scam warnings specifically about impostors pretending to be jackpot winners and contacting people via email or social media.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why you should evaluate the pattern, not the name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad816161744\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309748-ad_309691-placement_360588\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3906789406\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What To Do If You Have Fallen Victim to This Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you interacted with this scam, do not panic. The right response is calm, fast, and methodical. Use the steps below based on what happened in your case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Stop contact immediately<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do not reply again.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not argue.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Block the sender\u2019s email and any phone numbers they provided.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you only replied once and shared nothing, stopping now still helps.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Preserve evidence<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Save the emails, including headers if you can.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Screenshot messages, payment requests, and names used.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep receipts, transaction IDs, crypto wallet addresses, and any documents they sent.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Evidence matters for banks, platforms, and reports.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If you sent money, contact your bank or payment provider right away<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ask for the fraud department.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Request a recall or reversal if possible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you used a wire transfer, time is critical.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you used gift cards or crypto, recovery is harder, but still report it and document everything.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If you shared personal information, protect your identity<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Assume your data may be used for fraud.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Place a fraud alert or credit freeze if available in your country.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Watch for new accounts, unexpected credit checks, or mail about services you did not sign up for.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consider changing key answers to security questions if you reused them anywhere.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Secure your email and important accounts<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Change your email password first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enable two-factor authentication on email, banking, and social accounts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Review account recovery settings:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Backup email<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Phone numbers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trusted devices<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sign out of other sessions if your provider allows it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Check your devices for malware if you downloaded anything<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do not open unknown attachments they sent.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you already did, run a reputable security scan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Remove any remote access tools if you installed them under instruction.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Report the scam to the right authorities<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>File a report with the FTC through its official fraud reporting channel. (<a href=\"https:\/\/consumer.ftc.gov\/node\/78348?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Consumer Advice<\/a>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>File a complaint with the FBI\u2019s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), especially if money was lost.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Report the email as phishing inside your email provider.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you lost money, consider a police report for documentation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Warn your family and anyone who shares your inbox<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If you use a shared family email or someone else has access, let them know.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scammers sometimes try to pivot to relatives if they learn names or relationships.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Expect follow-up attempts, and do not fall for \u201crecovery\u201d offers<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You may get emails claiming:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cWe recovered your funds\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cA refund is ready\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cYour donation is pending\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The IC3 has specifically warned about scammers who offer to recover lost funds as a way to scam victims again <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use a quick red-flag checklist for anything similar in the future<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You did not apply, enter, or sign up<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are told you were \u201cselected\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are asked to reply to receive instructions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are asked to pay fees, even small ones<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are asked for ID, bank details, or personal data<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The sender uses urgency, secrecy, or emotional pressure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you are unsure whether an email like this is real<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use this rule: <strong>Real organizations do not randomly award you $550,000 by email and then ask you to pay or provide sensitive data to claim it.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consumer guidance is blunt for a reason: if you have to pay to get a prize, you are dealing with a scammer.  <\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad2927543399\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_318930-ad_309691-placement_360589\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3818335085\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2>Is Your Device Infected? Scan for Malware<\/h2> <p>If your computer or phone is slow, showing unwanted pop-ups, or acting strangely, malware could be the cause. Running a scan with <strong>Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free<\/strong> 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.<\/p> <p><strong>Malwarebytes<\/strong> 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.<\/p> <div class=\"su-tabs su-tabs-style-default su-tabs-mobile-stack\" data-active=\"1\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-tabs-nav\"><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Windows<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Mac<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Android<\/span><\/div><div class=\"su-tabs-panes\"><div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Windows\"> <h3 id=\"windowsh3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows<\/h3> \n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes<\/p> <p>Download the latest version of <strong>Malwarebytes for Windows<\/strong> using the official link below. Malwarebytes will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software for free.<\/p> <div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\"\/><\/figure> <strong><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/downloads\/MBSetup-076886.076886-consumer.exe\" onclick=\"window.open(&#039;https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-free&#039;);\">MALWAREBYTES FOR WINDOWS DOWNLOAD LINK<br \/>\n<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em class=\"small-text-disclaimer\">(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)<\/em><\/div><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u00a0<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install Malwarebytes<\/p>\n\n<p>After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. <strong>Double-click on the MBSetup file<\/strong> to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a <strong>User Account Control<\/strong> pop-up appears, click &#8220;<em>Yes<\/em>&#8221; to continue the Malwarebytes installation.<\/p>\n\n \n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"975\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285934\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg 975w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1-300x154.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 975px) 100vw, 975px\" \/><\/figure>\n \n\n \n  \n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes<\/p> \n\n<p>When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process. <\/p>\n\n<ul>\n \n  <li>\n    <p>You&#8217;ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you&#8217;re installing the program on\u2014select either &#8220;Personal Computer&#8221; or &#8220;Work Computer&#8221; as appropriate, then click on <strong>Next<\/strong>.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"737\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285953\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg 737w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1-300x204.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 737px) 100vw, 737px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"759\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285937\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg 759w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4-300x198.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 759px) 100vw, 759px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the &#8220;Welcome to Malwarebytes&#8221; screen.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"705\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285951\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg 705w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>On the final screen, simply click on the <strong>Open Malwarebytes<\/strong> option to start the program.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"749\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285952\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg 749w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Enable &#8220;Rootkit scanning&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes&#8217; ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the &#8220;Settings&#8221; gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285942\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the settings menu, enable the &#8220;Scan for rootkits&#8221; option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"841\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285943\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg 841w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 841px) 100vw, 841px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the &#8220;Dashboard&#8221; button in the left pane to get back to the main screen. \n\n <\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.<\/p> <p>To start a scan, click the <strong>Scan<\/strong> button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"849\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285941\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg 849w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 849px) 100vw, 849px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.<\/p>\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285944\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Quarantine detected malware<\/p>\n<p>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 &#8220;<strong>Quarantine<\/strong>&#8221; button.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285945\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<p>Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program&#8217;s quarantine. \n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285946\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n  <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart your computer.<\/p>\n  <p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285947\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n <p>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.<\/p> \n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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.<br \/>If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Run a computer scan with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eset.com\/us\/home\/online-scanner\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">ESET Online Scanner<\/a><\/strong><\/li><li>Ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Malware Removal Assistance for Windows\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/windows-malware-removal-help-support.10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Windows Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/li><\/ul>\n <\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Mac\"> <h3 id=\"mach3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Mac<\/h3> \n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes for Mac.<\/p>\n<p>You can download <strong>Malwarebytes for Mac<\/strong>&nbsp;by clicking the link below.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\"\/><\/figure><div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><figure><\/figure><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/click\/camref:1011lvqrV\/creativeref:1011l100234\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">MALWAREBYTES FOR MAC DOWNLOAD LINK<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em>(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes for Mac)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Double-click on the Malwarebytes setup file.<\/p>\n<p>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 <em>Downloads<\/em> folder.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98734 alignnone\" title=\"Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer.jpg\" alt=\"Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes\" width=\"750\" height=\"424\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-300x170.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.<\/p>\n<p>When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the <em>Malwarebytes for Mac Installer<\/em> which will guide you through the installation process. Click &#8220;<strong>Continue<\/strong>&#8220;, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98735 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1.jpg\" alt=\"Click Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"532\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98736 alignnone\" title=\"Click again on Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac for Mac\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2.jpg\" alt=\"Click again on Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac for Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98737 alignnone\" title=\"Click Install to install Malwarebytes on Mac\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4.jpg\" alt=\"Click Install to install Malwarebytes on Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the <em>Welcome to Malwarebytes<\/em> screen. Click the <strong>&#8220;Get started&#8221;<\/strong> button.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Select &#8220;Personal Computer&#8221; or &#8220;Work Computer&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>The Malwarebytes <em>Welcome<\/em> screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either <strong>Personal Computer<\/strong> or <strong>Work Computer<\/strong>.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98740 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer.jpg\" alt=\"Select Personal Computer or Work Computer mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"537\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Click on &#8220;Scan&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the &#8220;<strong>Scan<\/strong>&#8221; button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98733 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"Click on Scan button to start a system scan Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"538\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.<\/p>\n<p>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.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98739 alignnone\" title=\"Wait for Malwarebytes for Mac to scan your computer\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware.jpg\" alt=\"Wait for Malwarebytes for Mac to scan for malware\" width=\"750\" height=\"536\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Click on &#8220;Quarantine&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>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 &#8220;<strong>Quarantine<\/strong>&#8221; button.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98732 alignnone\" title=\"Review the malicious programs and click on Quarantine\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm.jpg\" alt=\"Review the malicious programs and click on Quarantine to remove malware\" width=\"750\" height=\"538\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart computer.<\/p> <p>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.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"750\" height=\"536\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98738 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes For Mac requesting to restart computer\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><br \/><\/p> <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n <p>After scanning, delete any detected threats. Your Mac should now be free from adware, unwanted extensions, and other potentially harmful software.<\/p> \n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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.<br \/>If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Mac Malware Removal Help &amp; Support\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/mac-malware-removal-help-support.183\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mac Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Android\"> <h3 id=\"androidh3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/h3> <p>Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don&#8217;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.<\/p>\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes for Android.<\/p>\n<p>You can download <strong>Malwarebytes for Android<\/strong> by clicking the link below.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\"\/><\/figure><div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=org.malwarebytes.antimalware&#038;hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">MALWAREBYTES FOR ANDROID DOWNLOAD LINK<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em>(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes for Android)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install Malwarebytes for Android on your phone.<\/p>\n<p>In the Google Play Store, tap &#8220;<strong>Install<\/strong>&#8221; to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106940\" title=\"Tap Install to install Malwarebytes for Android\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App.jpg\" alt=\"Tap Install to install Malwarebytes for Android\" width=\"292\" height=\"580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>When the installation process has finished, tap &#8220;<strong>Open<\/strong>&#8221; to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106941\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes for Android - Open App\" width=\"292\" height=\"578\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process<\/p>\n<p>When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the <em>Malwarebytes Setup Wizard<\/em> which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options.<br \/>This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106944\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 1\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 1\" width=\"292\" height=\"577\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Tap on &#8220;<strong>Got it<\/strong>&#8221; to proceed to the next step.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106945\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 2\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 2\" width=\"292\" height=\"580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>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 &#8220;<strong>Give permission<\/strong>&#8221; to continue.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106946\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 3\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 3\" width=\"292\" height=\"570\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3-154x300.jpg 154w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Tap on &#8220;Allow&#8221; to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106947\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 4\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 4\" width=\"292\" height=\"573\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7-153x300.jpg 153w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/p>\n<p>You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106939\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes fix issue\" width=\"292\" height=\"579\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>Click on &#8220;<strong>Update database<\/strong>&#8221; to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on &#8220;<strong>Run full scan<\/strong>&#8221; to perform a system scan.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106948\" title=\"Update database and run Malwarebytes scan\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"Update database and run Malwarebytes scan on phone\" width=\"291\" height=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan.jpg 291w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 291px) 100vw, 291px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.<\/p>\n<p>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.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106943\" title=\"Malwarebytes scanning phone for malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes scanning Android for Vmalware\" width=\"292\" height=\"579\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Click on &#8220;Remove Selected&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>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 &#8220;<strong>Remove Selected<\/strong>&#8221; button.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106942\" title=\"Tap on the Remove button to get rid of malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware.jpg\" alt=\"Remove malware from your phone\" width=\"760\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware.jpg 760w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware-300x237.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart your phone.<\/p>\n<p>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.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n <hr \/> <p>When the scan is finished, remove all detected threats. Your Android phone should now be free of malicious apps, adware, and unwanted browser redirects.<\/p> \n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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.<br \/>If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Restore your phone to factory settings by going to <em>Settings &gt; General management &gt; Reset &gt; Factory data reset.<\/em><\/li><li>Ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Mobile Malware Removal Help &amp; Support\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/mobile-malware-removal-help-support.165\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mobile Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/li><\/ul>\n <\/div><\/div><\/div> <p>After cleaning your device, it\u2019s important to protect it from future infections and annoying pop-ups. We recommend installing an ad blocker such as <a href=\"https:\/\/adguard.com\/?aid=29616\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><strong>AdGuard<\/strong><\/a>. AdGuard blocks malicious ads, prevents phishing attempts, and stops dangerous redirects, helping you stay safe while browsing online.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad1133106141\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381388-ad_309691-placement_381390\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3191649120\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Bottom Line<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The \u201cFrances &amp; Patrick Connolly Gift\u201d email is not a charitable surprise. It is a polished impersonation scam designed to start a conversation, collect your personal information, and push you into paying fake fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The names, the foundation language, and the big numbers are props. The real product is your trust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you received this email, do not respond. If you already engaged, cut contact, secure your accounts, document everything, and report it through official fraud channels. And remember the simplest rule in scam defense: <strong>money that arrives out of nowhere always comes with a catch, and in scams, you are the one paying it.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3334567280\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381392-ad_309691-placement_381395\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"2944237110\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is the \u201cConnolly Foundation\u201d email offering $550,000 real?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In almost all cases, no. This message matches a common advance-fee and impersonation scam pattern: a large \u201cgift,\u201d vague selection language, and a request to reply for \u201cnext steps.\u201d Legitimate foundations do not randomly award $550,000 to strangers via cold email.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Did Frances &amp; Patrick Connolly actually send this email?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Very unlikely. Scammers regularly use the names of real lottery winners or public figures to sound credible. The presence of real names does not prove the email is connected to them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why does the email mention a specific lottery and jackpot amount?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because specificity builds trust. Scammers add jackpot figures, years, and brand names to make the story feel verifiable. Often the details are inconsistent or mixed, but they still convince enough people to reply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What happens if I reply \u201cjust to see\u201d?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Replying confirms your email address is active and that you engage with unexpected offers. That can increase future scam attempts. It also opens the door for the scammer to begin asking for personal information and fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What information do scammers typically ask for next?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common requests include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Full name, home address, phone number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Date of birth or occupation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Photo of your ID or passport<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bank details \u201cfor transfer\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cVerification\u201d forms or signed documents<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Any of this can be used for identity theft or further social engineering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Will they ask me to pay money to receive the \u201cgift\u201d?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Usually, yes. The scam often shifts to \u201cprocessing,\u201d \u201clegal,\u201d \u201ctax,\u201d \u201ccourier,\u201d \u201cinsurance,\u201d or \u201ccustoms\u201d fees. If you must pay to receive money, it is a scam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What payment methods do these scammers prefer?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They often push irreversible or hard-to-recover methods such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wire transfers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cryptocurrency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gift cards<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Money transfer services<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Peer-to-peer payment apps<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I did not pay anything, but I shared my name and address. What should I do?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stop contact and secure your accounts. Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Change your email password and enable 2FA<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Watch for follow-up phishing attempts using your real details<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Be cautious about calls or mail referencing a \u201cgift,\u201d \u201cdelivery,\u201d or \u201cverification\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I paid a fee. Can I get my money back?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes, depending on the payment method and how quickly you act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Contact your bank or payment provider immediately and ask for the fraud department.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide transaction details and request a recall or dispute if possible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Even if recovery is unlikely (gift cards or crypto), report it and document everything.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">They sent me a certificate, ID badge, or official-looking letter. Does that prove it is legitimate?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. Scammers routinely create convincing documents, logos, seals, and fake \u201ccertificates\u201d to keep victims paying. Visual proof is easy to fabricate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How can I quickly spot this type of scam in the future?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use this checklist. It is almost certainly a scam if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You did not apply, enter, or sign up<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are told you were \u201cselected\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The sender wants you to reply for instructions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are asked for ID, banking details, or personal data<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are asked to pay any fee to receive money<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The message uses urgency, secrecy, or pressure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Should I report the email even if I did not lose money?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Reporting helps providers and agencies track patterns and shut down infrastructure. Report it as phishing in your email client and consider filing a report with relevant fraud reporting channels in your country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What if someone contacts me saying they can \u201crecover\u201d my lost funds?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Treat it as highly suspicious. \u201cRecovery\u201d scams often target people who have already been scammed and demand another fee. Do not pay them, and do not share additional information.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You are checking email, half-distracted, and a subject line jumps out at you: Congratulations! You have been selected for a financial gift of $550,000.00 from \u201cFrances &amp; Patrick Connolly,\u201d described as lottery jackpot winners running &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"Frances &amp; Patrick Connolly Gift Email Scam EXPOSED  &#8211; Investigation\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/frances-patrick-connolly-gift-email-scam-exposed-investigation\/#more-383295\" aria-label=\"Read more about Frances &amp; Patrick Connolly Gift Email Scam EXPOSED  &#8211; Investigation\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":50,"featured_media":383296,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[49],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-383295","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-scam-reports","masonry-post","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50","resize-featured-image"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/383295","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/50"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=383295"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/383295\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/383296"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=383295"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=383295"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=383295"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}