Cyber criminals are sending bogus emails regarding the Queen's death, designed to steal victims' sensitive credentials such as usernames and passwords.
While the nation mourns the UK's longest-ever reigning monarch, who passed away aged 96 on September 8, cold-hearted scammers have tried to take advantage of the situation by spreading a fake email in the form of a digital tribute to Her Majesty.
The message, which was highlighted by experts at Proofpoint, pretends to come from Microsoft - and when opened up by the recipient, displays a large header reading 'In memory of Her Majesty'.
Read more: Royal guard collapses face first to ground after fainting at Queen Elizabeth II's state funeral
The Express reports that the design of the email itself contains similar fonts and styling that Microsoft uses on its official website, which could further help lure in users who receive the message. The email goes on to say that Windows makers are launching an 'interactive AI memory board' in honour of the late Queen, with people alerted that they need to use their Microsoft account to take part.
However, its merely an elaborate ploy to get people to part ways with sensitive details such as usernames and passwords.
In a post on Twitter, Proofpoint said: "Proofpoint identified a credential #phish campaign using lures related to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Messages purported to be from Microsoft and invited recipients to an 'artificial technology hub' in her honor."
Proofpoint went on to explain that the messages in the email contain links to a page which is designed to steal user credentials.
Those who have already fallen victim to this callous scam should try to log into their Microsoft account and change their password as soon as possible, as well as making sure to enable two-factor authentication.
Those who share passwords across their accounts are also urged to change all passwords that also share the same login. If you want to stay safe from scams like this, there are in fact a few tell-tale signs to look out for to identify cons in the future.
First and foremost, you can avoid email-based scams with ease by checking the details of the sender. In this case, the scam email was sent from 'Microsof' and the email address attached was not a legitimate Microsoft domain.
Also, beware if an email has a number of typos - as these should not be expected in official correspondence from big name brands and franchises. Finally, you should always remember that you will never get emails out of the blue from legitimate companies asking for sensitive information.
Read next:
- Queen Elizabeth II's reign comes to an end with crown removal and wand breaking ritual
- Meghan Markle's heart-warming gesture to Princess Charlotte as they depart Westminster Abbey
- North East leaders pay tribute after death of 'incredible' Queen Elizabeth II
- King Charles III pays tribute to his 'beloved mother' after Queen's death at 96
- Light an online candle in memory of Queen Elizabeth and post a tribute
