Summary: The American Association of Orthodontists has issued a warning about a phishing email scam impersonating official AAO communications to steal member login credentials.
Key Takeaways:
- The scam email uses a fake AAO website to trick members into entering their email and password.
- Members who did not click the link should delete the email and take no further action.
- Those who interacted with the email should change their passwords and contact AAO Member Services immediately.
Updated: 6:16pm ET with statement from the AAO.
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is warning members of a scam email circulating that closely resembles official AAO correspondence. The phishing attempt directs recipients to update their personal information through a hyperlink that leads to a fraudulent website designed to spoof the AAO’s official site.
Subject Line: “2025 American Association of Orthodontists Information Verification”
The scam email may carry the subject line: 2025 American Association of Orthodontists Information Verification. Once the link is clicked, users are prompted to enter their email address and password into a fake login page.
READ MORE: Black Talon Security’s Gary Salman on How to Avoid Email Breaches in an Orthodontic Practice
Attackers May Harvest Multiple Credentials
According to an AAO alert posted on its website on March 25, the fake site may display an error message indicating that login credentials could not be verified, urging users to try again. This tactic increases the risk that victims will input multiple sets of credentials, thereby compromising their email and/or AAO account information.
What to Do If You Received the Email
The AAO advises members who received the email but did not click the link to mark it as spam and delete it. No further action is necessary in such cases.
Steps for Members Who Clicked the Link
For members who did click the link or entered any information, the AAO urges immediate action:
- Change your email password.
- Update passwords for any accounts that share the same credentials.
- Contact AAO Member Services to report the incident and receive additional support.
AAO Statement
AAO President John Callahan, DDS, MS, told Orthodontic Products, “We are aware of a recent phishing attempt that specifically targeted AAO members by impersonating our organization. While this incident did not involve a breach of AAO’s systems directly, we have proactively communicated with our members to ensure they have the necessary information to protect themselves. Our team is actively monitoring the situation and mitigating potential risks. We take these matters seriously and remain committed to safeguarding our members’ data and security.”
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