With all that’s going on in the world, it’s understandable that people are constantly seeking up-to-the-date information about what’s happening. Unfortunately, this has also made it easier for hackers to take advantage of people’s general fear and vulnerability with phishing scams. With that being said, we know what these attacks look like, as well as how to ward them off.
What Coronavirus Phishing Scams Look Like and How to Counter Them
In order to fight against phishing scams related to COVID-19, you need to know what they look like. So, to that end, here are a couple of the most common types of attacks that you should look out for, and how to not fall prey:
Text Scams
In recent months, text scams have been on the rise. In these instances, a text message will advertise cures, special offers for testing, news stories or relief package information. Oftentimes, these attacks are sent from someone impersonating a government official or agency. If an agency was actually trying to contact you, they wouldn’t send an email.
No matter who a text comes from or what it’s offering, if you don’t know the person or number, never click on the link. These individuals are simply looking to steal banking or personal information.
A good rule of thumb is to not reply to out-of-the-blue texts for important information. It’s best to check the CDC website for the latest updates.
Fake Emails
Just like text scams, phishing scam emails may highlight cures, testing, news, info, updates and more. In other words, they appear harmless enough. However, they’re prevalent and malicious.
Coronavirus phishing scams are being targeted at personal and business accounts alike, peddling attachments that lead to dangerous malware downloads. However, although they’re abundant, you can protect against them.
Generally, if an email seems suspicious, it most likely is. Therefore, never click a link s, never respond and definitely don’t give them any personal information.
Robocalls
Although robocalls have always been an issue, scammers have ramped them up since the outbreak began. Even the World Health Organization has warned against predatory calls seeking to steal private details about an individual or business.
Some of these calls go as far as offering free test kits and debt consolidation, before asking for some sort of payment. In that case, it’s best to ignore unknown contacts and never, ever share personal or financial information over the phone.
Although phishing scams have been escalating, there are many simple, free ways to guard against these attacks. Also, if you’d like to leave your company’s cyber security in the hands of a professional team of IT experts, TCI is ready, willing and able to help.
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