{"id":383303,"date":"2026-02-27T03:41:27","date_gmt":"2026-02-27T03:41:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/?p=383303"},"modified":"2026-02-27T03:41:37","modified_gmt":"2026-02-27T03:41:37","slug":"connolly-foundation-lottery-winner-email-scam-exposed-investigation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/connolly-foundation-lottery-winner-email-scam-exposed-investigation\/","title":{"rendered":"Connolly Foundation Lottery Winner Email Scam EXPOSED &#8211; Investigation"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Connolly Foundation email scam is a fraudulent message that claims you have been \u201cselected\u201d to receive a large cash gift, often around $550,000, supposedly funded by lottery winners.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1019589662\" 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\"> The email is designed to get you to reply, then steer you into sharing personal information or paying fake \u201cprocessing\u201d or \u201cdelivery\u201d fees. If you received one of these messages, treat it as a scam and do not engage.<\/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-1-3-1024x594.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-383304\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/scam-1-3-1024x594.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/scam-1-3-300x174.jpg 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/scam-1-3-860x499.jpg 860w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/scam-1-3.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3136825135\" 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 <strong>Connolly Foundation Email Scam<\/strong> is a lottery-winner impersonation scheme packaged as a charitable donation. It typically claims you have been \u201cselected\u201d to receive a large financial gift, often <strong>$100,000 to $1,000,000<\/strong>, from a foundation allegedly run by famous jackpot winners. The amount varies, but the structure rarely does.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1679823367\" 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\">The email you shared is a textbook example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A high-value promise: <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 storyline: \u201cour foundation\u2019s ongoing community support programs\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A low-friction call to action: \u201cPlease respond\u2026 for next steps\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A signature meant to look official: \u201cConnolly Foundation\u00a9\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At a distance, it sounds like philanthropy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Up close, it behaves like <strong>advance-fee fraud<\/strong> and <strong>identity theft<\/strong>, with the \u201cfoundation\u201d serving as a costume that makes the scam feel safer and more respectable.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad221041998\" 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<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why this scam uses famous names<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers routinely use real people\u2019s names to shorten the distance between skepticism and belief. If the name is recognizable, many recipients assume the message must be connected to something legitimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this case, scammers often use the names <strong>Frances and Patrick Connolly<\/strong>, widely known in the UK after a major EuroMillions win. Consumer watchdog reporting has documented impersonators using the Connolly name online to lure people with promises of money.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not speculation. There have been public warnings about scam outreach associated with the Connolly-linked charity context, including statements that scam emails claiming to represent the relevant trust were circulatin <\/p><div id=\"mwtad755796229\" 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<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the key point: a real person existing does not make an email real. It just makes the impersonation easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The \u201cfoundation\u201d language is a deliberate trust hack<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers love these words:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Foundation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grant<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Donation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beneficiary<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Humanitarian program<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Community support<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Funds release<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Verification<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They are designed to signal legitimacy without providing verifiable details.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2362851025\" 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\">Legitimate charities do not operate by randomly selecting people via unsolicited emails and then asking them to \u201creply for next steps.\u201d When real philanthropic programs exist, they have clear public eligibility criteria, established application processes, official contact channels, and documentation that can be verified independently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Connolly Foundation scam avoids all of that. It is intentionally vague. Vague is useful because it lets the scammer adapt the story to whatever you say next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why the Powerball angle is often a red flag<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many Connolly-themed scam emails mix lottery brands, jackpot numbers, or years in ways that do not hold together. That mismatch is common in impersonation fraud. The scammer needs something that sounds impressive, not something that is accurate.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad4070348571\" 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\">Even when details are correct, it does not matter. The scam is not about lottery facts. It is about using a lottery narrative to justify a sudden gift.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consumer protection agencies have repeatedly warned about scammers impersonating lottery winners and promising \u201cfree money\u201d to anyone who engages, then turning the conversation into fee demands and payment requests. (<a href=\"https:\/\/consumer.ftc.gov\/consumer-alerts\/2024\/05\/free-money-social-media-nah-its-scam\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Consumer Advice<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What the scammer actually wants<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Connolly Foundation email scam is built to extract value in three main ways.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1198096758\" 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<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1) Your personal information<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you reply, the scam quickly shifts to \u201cverification.\u201d This is the most dangerous stage because it can lead to identity theft.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typical 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<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Occupation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Photo of your driver\u2019s license or passport<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Banking information \u201cfor transfer\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A selfie holding your ID (framed as identity confirmation)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Official consumer guidance is blunt for a reason: if someone tells you that you must provide sensitive personal or financial information to receive a prize, donation, or award, it is a scam.  <\/p><div id=\"mwtad4059225474\" 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<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2) Upfront payments<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After \u201cverification,\u201d the scam introduces a barrier that conveniently requires you to send money first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The barrier can be called:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Processing fee<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Delivery fee<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Courier insurance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Legal documentation fee<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tax clearance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anti-money laundering compliance charge<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Customs duty<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transfer activation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The names change. The premise never does.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1117225072\" 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<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3) Future targeting and resale of your contact details<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even if you do not pay, a reply marks you as responsive. That makes your email address more valuable inside scam networks. People who engage often see a surge of follow-up attempts, including \u201crecovery\u201d scams that promise to help get money back for a fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The FBI has warned that scammers actively revictimize prior victims by claiming they can recover lost funds and then demanding money or sensitive information. (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fbi.gov\/investigate\/cyber\/alerts\/2025\/fbi-warns-of-scammers-impersonating-the-ic3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Federal Bureau of Investigation<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why smart people still get pulled in<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This scam does not rely on ignorance. It relies on pressure and emotion.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad556865193\" 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\">It leverages:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Surprise: \u201cselected\u201d out of nowhere<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Relief: the amount is large enough to feel life-changing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Authority: lottery winners, foundations, official-sounding steps<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Momentum: \u201cjust reply for next steps\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Commitment: once you respond, it feels harder to walk away<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scarcity: many variants add deadlines or confidentiality requests<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This pattern appears across lottery-winner impersonation scams generally. The FTC has described how scammers impersonate lottery winners online, then push urgency and fees, often demanding gift cards or other difficult-to-reverse payment methods.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The reality behind Connolly-related charity warnings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3236837076\" 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\">One reason this specific scam persists is that it borrows from a real-world charitable context around the Connolly name, then twists it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reporting on scam outreach connected to a Connolly-linked trust included a clear statement: scam emails claiming to represent the trust were circulating, and the founders would not use email or social media as a means of requesting funding for charity purposes. (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.strabaneweekly.co.uk\/news\/2021\/08\/27\/gallery\/scammers-impersonating-lottery-winning-couple-18042\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Strabane Weekly<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is a useful frame for recipients: even when a charity is real, criminals can impersonate it, and unsolicited outreach that asks for money or personal information is a major warning sign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quick red flags that strongly indicate a Connolly Foundation scam<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the message includes any of the following, treat it as fraudulent until proven otherwise:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You did not apply, enter, or sign up for anything<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are told you were \u201cselected\u201d randomly<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The email asks you to reply to learn \u201cnext steps\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The sender uses free email services or odd addresses<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The message is vague about how you were chosen<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are asked for ID, banking details, or personal data<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are told to pay fees to receive the gift<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The sender pressures urgency or secrecy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The sender insists on gift cards, crypto, or wire transfers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The FTC\u2019s prize-scam guidance highlights the same core warning signs: paying fees to receive a prize and providing financial or personal information to claim it.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad4015449118\" 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\">The Connolly Foundation email scam is typically a multi-step funnel. It starts gentle and friendly, then becomes administrative and urgent once you are emotionally invested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Below is the most common sequence, with the main variations scammers use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1: The bait email hits your inbox<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first email is designed to look simple and welcoming. It rarely includes links at the start. That is intentional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scammer\u2019s goal is to get you to respond so they can move you into a one-on-one conversation. Once you reply, the scam feels less like spam and more like a \u201cprocess.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common opening lines include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cCongratulations!\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cYou have been selected\u2026\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cThis is part of our foundation\u2019s community support\u2026\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cKindly respond for the next steps\u2026\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the email includes a large amount like $550,000, that number is doing heavy lifting. It is large enough to feel real and meaningful, but not so large that it feels absurd to everyone.<\/p>\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: The scammer confirms you as a \u201cbeneficiary\u201d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you reply, the scammer usually responds quickly with a more formal tone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Congratulate you again<\/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 reference number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tell you that your funds are \u201capproved\u201d or \u201creserved\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This step is psychological. It moves you from uncertainty into a new identity: recipient, beneficiary, selected participant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That identity makes people more likely to continue because walking away starts to feel like losing something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3: \u201cVerification\u201d begins<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now the scam shifts to paperwork mode.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scammer claims they must confirm your identity to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Prevent fraud<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meet compliance rules<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Document the foundation\u2019s donation activity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prepare transfer paperwork<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In practice, it is data harvesting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They often request:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Full name and address<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Phone number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Age or date of birth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Copy of your ID<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Banking information or a \u201creceiving account\u201d for transfer<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not normal, and it is not necessary for a legitimate gift.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">FTC guidance on prize scams specifically warns that if someone says you must provide financial or personal information to claim a prize, it is a scam <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4: The delivery story appears<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In many Connolly Foundation scam variants, the scammer introduces a method for getting your \u201cgift\u201d to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common delivery narratives include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bank transfer to your account<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cash delivery via courier<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Certified check<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ATM card loaded with funds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Escrow release<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This stage often comes with fake documentation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Donation certificate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proof of transfer screenshot<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Courier waybill<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cApproval letter\u201d with seals and signatures<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The documents are not meant to prove legitimacy. They are meant to increase compliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 5: The first fee is introduced<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where the scam becomes clearly transactional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scammer claims the donation is real, but you must pay something small to release it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They frame the fee as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Routine<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Legally required<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A minor hurdle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A refundable deposit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typical first-fee ranges:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>$50 to $500<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sometimes $1,000 or more if the victim seems willing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The FTC describes the core tell: if you have to pay to get your prize, it is a scam.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 6: Payment method steering<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scammer will try to steer you away from payment methods that are reversible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Expect pushes toward:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Gift cards<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cryptocurrency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wire transfers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Payment apps<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The FTC has explicitly warned that scammers who pretend to be lottery winners often demand gift cards for \u201cprocessing and delivery fees,\u201d and that only scammers ask for gift cards as payment.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 7: The \u201cjust one more step\u201d loop<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After the first payment, the scammer rarely stops. Instead, the process becomes a staircase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each time you pay, a new issue appears:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Courier insurance must be upgraded<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Customs requires a clearance fee<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transfer is pending anti-fraud validation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A release code must be purchased<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Legal notarization is required<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The bank requires a deposit to activate transfer<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is how victims lose thousands or tens of thousands over time. The scammer is not trying to get one payment. They are trying to keep you paying until you stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 8: Escalation tactics if you hesitate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you slow down, scammers adjust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Increase urgency: \u201cThis must be paid today.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply guilt: \u201cThis donation could change your life.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create fear: \u201cYour funds will be forfeited.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Push secrecy: \u201cDo not tell anyone or it will be canceled.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Secrecy is especially important for scammers because it prevents you from showing the email to someone who will spot the fraud in seconds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 9: Revictimization scams<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you realize it is a scam and stop responding, you may still be targeted again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A common follow-up scam is a \u201crecovery\u201d approach:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Someone claims they can recover your funds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They claim to be associated with law enforcement, investigators, or reporting agencies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They demand fees to release recovered money<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The FBI has warned about scammers impersonating the IC3 and using the claim of recovered funds as a ruse to gain financial information and revictimize people.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 10: The scam keeps changing names<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the most frustrating parts is that the branding changes constantly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Connolly Foundation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Connolly Grant Program<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Donation Department<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Community Outreach Foundation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kathleen Graham Trust impersonations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Variants that use other lottery winner names<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why the best defense is pattern recognition. The story changes. The mechanics remain the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3118236537\" 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 the Connolly Foundation email scam, focus on what you shared and what you paid. Use the steps below in order, and skip anything that does not apply.<\/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 negotiate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Block the sender and any follow-up addresses or numbers.<\/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 attachments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Screenshot the messages and any payment instructions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep transaction IDs, wallet addresses, and recipient details if you paid.<\/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 reversal, recall, or dispute if possible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Time matters, especially for wires.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If you paid by gift card, act fast<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Gather the gift card brand, receipt, and card numbers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Report it to the gift card issuer immediately.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recovery is difficult, but quick reporting can sometimes help.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If you paid with cryptocurrency, document everything<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Save wallet addresses, transaction hashes, and exchange details.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Report the wallet addresses to the platform you used.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consider reporting to law enforcement with full transaction details.<\/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>Change passwords for email and any accounts linked to that email.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enable two-factor authentication on email, banking, and payment apps.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitor accounts for suspicious activity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consider a fraud alert or credit freeze where available.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Check your email security settings<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Review forwarding rules and filters. Scammers sometimes try to set rules that hide bank alerts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Review account recovery email and phone number.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sign out of other sessions if your provider supports it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Scan your device if you opened attachments<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If you downloaded files or clicked links, run a reputable security scan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Remove any unknown remote access tools if installed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Report the scam<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Report the email as phishing in your email provider.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Report prize and lottery scams to the FTC.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you are in the US and lost money, report to the FBI\u2019s IC3.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you are outside the US, report to your local consumer protection agency or police.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Watch for recovery scams<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Be skeptical of anyone who contacts you claiming they can recover your money for a fee.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The FBI has warned that the IC3 will not ask for payment to recover lost funds and that such claims are used to revictimize victims.   <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad1029010834\" 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=\"mwtad1308489157\" 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 Connolly Foundation email scam is not a charitable gift. It is an impersonation scheme designed to start a conversation, collect sensitive personal information, and pressure you into paying fees to receive money that does not exist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Treat unsolicited \u201cyou have been selected\u201d donation emails as fraudulent by default, especially when they involve lottery winners, urgent next steps, and any request for fees or personal details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you already engaged, cut contact, secure your accounts, document everything, and report it. The faster you act, the more options you have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad126025792\" 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 Connolly Foundation email offering a $550,000 gift legitimate?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In nearly all cases, no. Unsolicited emails that claim you were \u201cselected\u201d to receive $550,000 and ask you to reply for \u201cnext steps\u201d match the standard pattern of prize, donation, and advance-fee scams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Are Frances &amp; Patrick Connolly actually behind these emails?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is no reliable indication that the real people are emailing strangers to give away money. Scammers often impersonate well-known lottery winners because the names are recognizable and easy to search.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why would a real foundation contact people by email out of the blue?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Legitimate foundations usually do not cold-email random individuals to award large sums. Real charitable programs typically have public eligibility rules, a formal application process, and verifiable contact details. A random selection email with vague \u201cnext steps\u201d is a major red flag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What happens if I reply to the email?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Replying usually triggers a back-and-forth where the scammer tries to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Confirm you as a \u201cbeneficiary\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collect personal information for \u201cverification\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Introduce fees to \u201cprocess,\u201d \u201cinsure,\u201d or \u201cdeliver\u201d the money<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What personal information do scammers typically request?<\/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, address, phone number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Date of birth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Occupation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Photo or scan of a passport or driver\u2019s license<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Banking details \u201cfor transfer\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A selfie holding your ID<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why do they ask for fees if they are giving away money?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because the fee is the scam. They invent charges like \u201cprocessing,\u201d \u201ccourier,\u201d \u201clegal,\u201d \u201cinsurance,\u201d \u201ctax,\u201d or \u201cclearance\u201d fees to get you to send money first. Once you pay, they often come back with more fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What payment methods do scammers prefer?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They usually push methods that are hard to reverse, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Gift cards<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cryptocurrency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wire transfers<\/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 only replied once. Am I in danger?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you did not share sensitive information or send money, your main risk is being targeted again. Replying confirms your email is active. Block the sender, mark the email as phishing, and be alert for follow-up scams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I shared my address or phone number. What should I do?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lock down your accounts and expect more scam attempts. Steps that help:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Change your email password and enable two-factor authentication<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Watch for strange calls, texts, or emails referencing the \u201cgift\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Be cautious about anyone claiming to be a courier, bank agent, or investigator<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I sent my ID or bank details. What should I do immediately?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Treat it as a potential identity theft situation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Contact your bank\u2019s fraud department and explain what you shared<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Change passwords on email and financial accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enable two-factor authentication<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitor accounts closely<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consider a fraud alert or credit freeze where available<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I paid money. Can I get it 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>Bank transfers and card payments may have limited recovery options if reported fast<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gift cards and crypto are much harder to recover<br \/>Still report it and preserve all transaction details.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should I do with the email itself?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do not reply<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Block the sender<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Report it as phishing in your email provider<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep a copy for reporting if you already engaged<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why do these scams keep coming back with different names?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers rotate domains, names, and branding to avoid filters and complaints. The details change, but the mechanics stay the same: unsolicited \u201cselected\u201d message, verification requests, then fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How can I quickly spot a similar scam next time?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use this checklist:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You did not apply or sign up<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You were \u201crandomly selected\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are told to reply for instructions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are asked for ID or banking info<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You must pay fees to receive money<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The sender pressures urgency or secrecy<br \/>If you see these signs, stop engaging.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Connolly Foundation email scam is a fraudulent message that claims you have been \u201cselected\u201d to receive a large cash gift, often around $550,000, supposedly funded by lottery winners. The email is designed to get &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"Connolly Foundation Lottery Winner Email Scam EXPOSED &#8211; Investigation\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/connolly-foundation-lottery-winner-email-scam-exposed-investigation\/#more-383303\" aria-label=\"Read more about Connolly Foundation Lottery Winner Email Scam EXPOSED &#8211; Investigation\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":50,"featured_media":383304,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[49],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-383303","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\/383303","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=383303"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/383303\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/383304"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=383303"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=383303"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=383303"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}