Whenever the news is dominated by an event, we see an increase in phishing and scam attempts that use that event to trick people into giving up their logins or download malware.
The COVID-19 (coronavirus)
pandemic is no exception. The number of email and scam web sites using COVID
and coronavirus are growing exponentially, just like the virus.
What to do? You need to stay vigilant at all times and “Think
Before You Click”
Many of the attempts are using the same techniques we’ve seen during hurricanes, earthquakes, and wildfires. The email will often be made to look like they came from your boss, a government official, or trusted contact. They may offer you exclusive information you have to download or click on a link to get.
Be skeptical – If the email seems like it’s from someone you know or work with, verify they sent the email via phone or chat.
With more of us working from home, credential thieves are pushing out spoofed file sharing emails asking you to log in to retrieve a file from a coworker. They do a good job of making the email look like a typical email from OneDrive, Dropbox or another file share site. The difference is the link will take you to a convincing fake login site designed to get your account information.
Be skeptical – If an email appears to be from someone you know or work with and has a link or button to download a file, verify they sent the email via phone or chat.
Scam/Spam email has also increased, these email and ads are offering high priced ‘Coronavirus Masks’ or ‘CDC recommended’ disinfectant. There has also been an increase in fake charities seeking donations. If you are lucky when buying into one of these scams, the scammer will only receive the price you paid for the fake CDC wipes. If the scammer is particularly nasty, they will keep and use your payment information.
Be skeptical and cautious – Don’t respond to sensational email marketing. If you are not sure if an offer is real or fake, use your browser and trusted sites to research further.