In uncertain or chaotic times, the last thing many of us think about is Cyber security. Cyber criminals will take advantage of such distraction and create new ways of targeting the public. That is the case currently, where several types of new attacks have been discovered that leverage the public’s concern generated by COVID-19. So as you are surfing the web for information or trying to adjust to a remote work situation, please be sure to practice extra cyber security vigilance.
Here are some best practices you can follow to avoid COVID-19 cyber scams and attacks:
Malicious Phishing Emails:
Approach all email with heightened attentiveness and focused attention.
- Double check all emails received that contain a subject line mentioning: Pandemic or related terms such as COVID-19 or Coronavirus; Any health organization; Advertisements for masks, hand sanitizers, or any products that are in short supply
- Are from an authoritative figure or health organization
- If you work from home, look carefully at all emails that come from outside your organization.
- If you are suspicious, do not click any link or attachment and delete the email immediately
Infected Infographics, Maps, and Tracking Apps:
Infographics and maps promising to give you more information about the pandemic are multiplying on the Internet. Malicious tracking apps are locking devices and demanding a ransom fee.
- Do not download COVID-19 infographics or maps from unofficial sites. Clicking on a link may install malware on your computer.
- Go directly to official websites like the CDC or WHO for current information pertaining to COVID-19.
- Do not click on a link directly, instead: STOP and check the website spelling. Open a browser and hand type the website address.
- Never enter data that a website should not be requesting – for example, a public website like the CDC will not request login credentials.
- Only load apps from the official stores for Android (Google Play Store) and IOS (Apple App Store).