- HR Jolt
- Posts
- “Payroll Pirates” Target University Payrolls
“Payroll Pirates” Target University Payrolls
In partnership with
The best HR advice comes from people who’ve been in the trenches.
That’s what this newsletter delivers.
I Hate it Here is your insider’s guide to surviving and thriving in HR, from someone who’s been there. It’s not about theory or buzzwords — it’s about practical, real-world advice for navigating everything from tricky managers to messy policies.
Every newsletter is written by Hebba Youssef — a Chief People Officer who’s seen it all and is here to share what actually works (and what doesn’t). We’re talking real talk, real strategies, and real support — all with a side of humor to keep you sane.
Because HR shouldn’t feel like a thankless job. And you shouldn’t feel alone in it.
📊 HR Trends: “Payroll Pirates” Target University Payrolls
A group of hackers labeled “Payroll Pirates” has launched targeted attacks on U.S. universities, aiming to hijack salary payments via HR systems. These attackers use social engineering and phishing methods to gain access to employee email and HR SaaS platforms like Workday, then stealthily reroute funds to fraudulent accounts. The attacks exploit weak multi-factor authentication setups and inbox rules to hide alerts. Microsoft’s investigation revealed that 11 accounts at three universities were compromised in the first half of 2025, leading to phishing campaigns spanning 25 universities. This underscores that HR systems—especially payroll—are high-value targets. Read more.
🎧 HR Insights: When HR Must Be the Anchor for Employee Support
This article spotlights how human resources is increasingly expected to serve not just as administrators but as frontline supporters of staff. HR professionals are now tackling issues from emotional stress to work-life balance, helping employees navigate conflicts, mental load, or personal crises. The shift positions HR as a backbone of organizational culture, not just a policy enforcer or process manager.
💡 HR Tips & Tricks
Tip of the Day: Design a deck of “challenge cards” that pose tough, real dilemmas (e.g., “What to do if leadership resists changing compensation structure?”). Each quarter, randomly draw 1–2 cards and have HR teams simulate responses and pilot small test solutions. This keeps HR sharp and prepared for unpredictable issues.
Trick of the Day: At the end of every HR team meeting, ask each person to echo one idea voiced by someone else that they found compelling. This ensures that key ideas are heard multiple times, builds collective memory, and surfaces hidden gems that might otherwise fade away.
🧾 HR Case Files - KKR’s In-Office Health Clinic as Employee Wellness Strategy
KKR has opened a 3,500-square-foot health and wellness clinic in its Manhattan headquarters, offering everything from primary care and mental health counseling to cancer screenings and physical therapy. The facility adopts discreet access points, encrypted appointment systems, and a broad range of services meant to reduce barriers to care, reinforcing wellness as a strategic employee benefit.
Key Takeaways
Integrated health services can strengthen retention and well-being.
Privacy, ease of access, and perception matter as much as services.
Such investments send a signal that the organization cares
🧰 HR Toolbox
Stay equipped with the latest HR events and resources.
Resource of the Day
A Gartner insight on human resources highlights that HR leaders must go beyond traditional functions to differentiate themselves. Leadership in HR now requires mastering technology integration, data-driven decision making, and innovation in experience design. To stand out, HR must deliver measurable business impact, act as a strategic partner, and ensure purpose is woven into each initiative.
Event of the Day
The HR Vision London event, happening on November 18-19, is a gathering of HR leaders, thinkers, and solution providers. It covers themes such as talent innovation, people analytics, leadership, and future work models. Attendees will be able to attend keynotes, case study sessions, workshops, and networking focused on transformative HR practices.
Find out why 100K+ engineers read The Code twice a week.
That engineer who always knows what's next? This is their secret.
Here's how you can get ahead too:
Sign up for The Code - tech newsletter read by 100K+ engineers
Get latest tech news, top research papers & resources
Become 10X more valuable
Showcase your brand/product/services in our newsletter and reach over 39,000 industry leaders in human resources! Contact us today to advertise with HR Jolt.
Disclosure: Some content in this newsletter may be sponsored or include affiliate links. HR Jolt might earn commissions or have a business interest in featured companies. Read our privacy policy.