6 ways to protect your institution from coronavirus-related cybersecurity threats

During events such as the COVID-19, or Coronavirus, pandemic, there is often an increase of criminal activity online. Preying on fear and panic, cyber criminals are now sending various scams related to COVID-19 and taking advantage of increasing vulnerabilities resulting from unusual working situations. It is critical that you and your institution’s employees exercise caution during this time.

Coronavirus Cybersecurity Threats

Fraudsters are using a variety of tactics in efforts to scam businesses and individuals, and your institution must maintain a heightened sense of awareness. Malicious websites are being registered by fraudsters at breakneck speed, many including the word “corona,” and these are used to distribute malware to the devices of unsuspecting visitors. Scammers are using spam emails containing conspiracy language or offering the opportunity to purchase high-demand goods, including masks, cleaning supplies, etc.

Additionally, cyber criminals are sending phishing emails that appear to come from familiar organizations but contain malicious phishing links or dangerous attachments. Be especially wary of emails claiming to have “new” or “updated” lists of COVID-19 cases in your area, as these emails can contain dangerous links. The attachments to these emails often include malware that, when installed, allow the attacker to install additional malware on the compromised machine, including ransomware, keyloggers and credential stealing malware.

 

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