SCAM ALERT: Email Posing as Msgr. Torgerson
Our parish and parishioners have once again become a target for an email scam:
- Thieves are using email addresses listed in our bulletin and website to write emails posing as Msgr. Torgerson, asking for help.
- If the recipient replies, the thieves ask that person to purchase gift cards, scratch off the panels revealing the gift card number and email that information to them.
- This began in May and staff have experienced two waves since that time. This is the first time that parishioners are being targeted.
Some important things to keep in mind:
- Our website and our email servers HAVE NOT been compromised. These are not bots, but actual people who understand Msgr’s public position as a leader in our community. Our network and affiliated servers have strong layers of protection in place.
- Msgr. Torgerson rarely corresponds with parishioners via email. When he does, the only email address he possesses is part of our official domain: <@stmonica.net>. His executive assistant, Patricia Garcia is his primary point of contact and handles all but the most sensitive of matters.
- Since the thieves are opening brand new email accounts with third-party email providers, there is little we can do to prevent/block their actions.
- Msgr. Torgerson is fully aware of the situation.
What you should do:
If you have any questions or further concerns—or if you are contacted with questions or concerns—re-direct everyone to me. I realize these messages can be unnerving—yet it is important that all of us not inflame the situation with speculation, rumor, or panic.
Thank so much,
~merrick
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Merrick Siebenaler
Director of Marketing Communications
St. Monica Catholic Community
725 California Ave ∙ Santa Monica, CA 90403
(310) 566-1514 ∙