The FBI has been made aware of a spam email attempting to extort money from the recipient. The email purports to be from Shawn Dudziak, using the email address of shawndud@hotmail.com. The email provides accurate information about the victim including complete name, address, telephone number, social security number, and date of birth; all the information a credit report/credit application would include. The email threatens to destroy the victim's credit unless the victim sends $500.00 through e-gold or Western Union. The email alleges that once the money is received, the victim's information would be deleted from the sender's database. It further advised the victim would never hear from the sender again.

This e-mail is an attempt to extort money. Do not follow the instructions.

If you receive a spam email that contains your personal information it is suggested that you:

• Alert credit card companies.
• Alert banking institutions.
• Contact the three major credit bureaus and request an alert be put on your file.
• Request a copy of your credit report and notify the credit bureau of any suspicious entries.

Be cautious - protect personal identity when responding to requests or special offers delivered through unsolicited email:

• Guard your personal information as well as your account information carefully.
• Keep a list of all your credit cards and account information along with the card issuer's contact information. If your monthly statement looks suspicious or you lose your card(s), contact the issuer immediately.

If you have received this, or a similar hoax, please file a complaint at www.IC3.gov.