Cybersecurity Alert: “Free Piano” Email Scam Targets Students and Professionals

A widespread email scam campaign is targeting students, faculty, healthcare workers, and others with offers of free pianos, leading victims into an advance fee fraud (AFF) scheme. Cybersecurity firm Proofpoint has uncovered the operation, which has been active since at least January 2024 and has already ensnared thousands of unsuspecting individuals.

Lure email purporting to be giving away a “free” piano. | Image: Proofpoint

The scam begins with a seemingly innocuous email offering a free piano due to a supposed death in the family or a similar emotional ploy. Upon responding, victims are instructed to contact a fake shipping company, also controlled by the scammers, who demand upfront payment for delivery. These fraudulent shipping fees are often requested via peer-to-peer payment platforms like Zelle or Cash App, as well as cryptocurrency, making it difficult to trace the funds once they are sent.

Proofpoint’s investigation has linked the scam to a Bitcoin wallet with over $900,000 in transactions, suggesting a highly organized and lucrative operation. While the exact number of perpetrators remains unclear, evidence points to at least one individual based in Nigeria.

This piano scam is a classic example of Advance Fee Fraud (AFF), a type of cybercrime where scammers lure victims with promises of significant rewards in exchange for a small upfront payment. Once the payment is made, the scammers disappear, leaving the victim empty-handed.

To protect yourself from falling victim to this scam, be wary of unsolicited emails offering free goods or services. Never share personal information or send money to unknown individuals or companies. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.