A fraudulent e-mail claiming to come from an entity called “SynergyBda Project” is being circulated by scammers trying to break into e-mail accounts.

Police warned that the “sophisticated” scam contained links enabling criminals to access accounts and send out calls to anyone associated to transfer funds to the fraudster’s account.

A spokesman said the fake e-mails often included the sender’s usual signature and writing style in an attempt to appear genuine.

However, the requests are “typically urgent in tone and may lack expected details about what the payment is for”.

Police advised caution when receiving unexpected e-mails — even those appearing to come from trusted sources.

The spokesman reminded the public that “taking a few moments to confirm a request could prevent significant financial loss”.

Recipients should avoid clicking on any unfamiliar links or attachments, and verify any requests for fund transfers or sensitive information by telephone or in person.

Multi-factor authentication was also advised for e-mail accounts.

Suspicious e-mails should be reported to the user’s IT department or service provider.

Anyone who may have fallen victim to the scam should contact the Bermuda Police Service Financial Crime Unit at 295-0011, or use the BPS community reporting portal online.