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CMS issues statement on payroll fraud investigation

School officials said they became aware of the incident on September 28 and are cooperating with law enforcement on the investigation.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — On Tuesday, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools issued a statement regarding fraudulent activity related to the payroll accounts of six employees.

School officials said they became aware of the incident on September 28 and are cooperating with law enforcement on the investigation.

"The incident occurred when the employees opened two phishing emails and provided their CMS passwords and login information. It is likely that the cybercriminal captured and used personal logins to change employees direct deposit bank accounts," CMS said.

The school district said it has data security protections and measures in place which are updated when necessary to protect important information.

"One account compromised is too many. This incident has the full attention of staff in CMS Payroll, HR and Technology in assisting our employees in safeguarding their personal information and to increase security measures where possible," said CMS.

School officials said they'll respond to the findings from the investigation "based on guidance from law enforcement and security personnel."

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