Fraudulent websites impersonating AdviceWorks and NetX websites have recently caused Cetera Advisors’ associated persons to unintendedly provide their login credentials to cyber criminals. This resulted in multiple fraudulent trades and potentially exposed client account data.
How did it happen? In one example, an associated person used their internet browser to search for Adviceworks. A fraudulent Adviceworks website was at the top of the search results that looked exactly like the genuine Adviceworks site. The associated person entered their login credentials, which were captured by the cyber criminals. The page then redirected to the authentic Adviceworks website where the login credentials were requested again, and the associated person accessed the actual Adviceworks website.
How can this be prevented? Only use a bookmark to access Cetera websites. Ensure when creating the bookmark that you are typing the exact, confirmed web address for the site. Do NOT rely on search results. The correct URL for Adviceworks is https://advisor.adviceworks.net/. Bookmark this page by pressing Ctrl+D (Windows) or Command +D (Mac).
It is very difficult to notice that a fraudulent linked site has a different/incorrect website address. The “I” can be replaced with a number one. A letter can be left out, etc.
Please review Cetera’s article on this threat for additional information on how to spot this fraud and how to mitigate it. HERE
This tactic has also been used by scammers for Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft 365, and Zoom websites. We recommend you take great care when accessing any website via search results. The sites often look legitimate and are designed to steal passwords, install malware, or capture sensitive information.
Internal Use Only