This post was written by Amy J. Greer.
The SEC sent out a warning yesterday that a phony message referencing the Agency’s Whistleblower Office is being used in connection with a potential computer hack or dissemination of malicious software. According to the SEC Alert, sent through the Agency’s push technology, it has received numerous calls in the past 24 hours concerning an email that reads as follows:
“Dear customer, Securities and Exchange Commission Whistleblower office has received an anonymous tip on alleged misconduct at your company, including Material misstatement or omission in a company’s public filings or financial statements, or a failure to file Municipal securities transactions or public pension plans, involving such financial products as private equity funds. Failure to provide a response to this complaint within a 14 day period will result in Securities and Exchange Commission investigation against your company. You can access the complaint details in U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Tips, Complaints, and Referrals portal under the following link: ”
According to the SEC, the email is a hoax. Since the message appears to be directed at companies, it may be prudent to warn your personnel about this hoax.