Be cautious of a new, sophisticated investment scam targeting university employees

Aug. 24, 2026
To: University Community
From: University Information Technology Services
Subject: Be cautious of a new, sophisticated investment scam targeting university employees
Date: Aug 24, 2026

University Information Technology Services is alerting faculty, staff and students to a sophisticated phishing scam involving investment fraud targeting members of the university community.

How these scams work

Relationship-based investment scams often begin with an unexpected email, text or social media message. Unlike traditional phishing attacks that seek quick action, these scams attempt to build credibility and trust over time.

  • The university is receiving reports of these types of scams directed at faculty.
  • Scammers may express interest in a faculty member’s teaching, research or other professional activities to start what appears to be a legitimate conversation.
  • Over time, they introduce an investment opportunity, often involving cryptocurrency, with the goal of convincing the individual to send money.

Below is a recent example of a relationship-based scam received by a university faculty member to demonstrate the sophisticated tactics being used:

Dear Professor,

I came across your University of Arizona profile and was struck by the combination of your work in general [medical specialty] with your leadership of [name of university program]. Your view that a trusting relationship is the foundation of medical practice made me think that continuity is more than a training format - it may be how young physicians learn to understand families and communities over time.

My nephew is currently in Grade 12 and has become interested in pediatrics. I work in education, but I am outside medicine.

If convenient, could you share a few thoughts on what he should begin practicing now, beyond science, to become someone patients and families can generally trust?

Learn how to spot the warning signs of relationship-based investment scams

Be cautious if someone you do not know:

  • Contacts you unexpectedly and attempts to develop an ongoing relationship.
  • Expresses interest in your professional work but gradually shifts the conversation to personal or financial topics.
  • Encourages you to invest in cryptocurrency or another financial opportunity.
  • Directs you to an unfamiliar investment website, app or platform.
  • Pressures you to send money or increase an investment.

Information and resources

If you receive a suspicious message, do not send money or provide personal or financial information.

Learn more about how to recognize and avoid relationship-based investment scams.

Please report suspicious emails by forwarding them as an attachment to phish@arizona.edu. 

Stay alert and informed about the latest university-reported phishing scams by visiting the Information Security Office website and the Phishing Alerts webpage.