19 Mar COVID-19 and Cybersecurity Threats: What You Need To Know

How COVID-19 and Cybersecurity Are Intertwined

The Coronavirus threat has reached unprecedented levels of exposure on a global scale. In some shape or form, everyone has been affected. Whether it’s the closing of schools or small businesses or impacts to health. When it comes to cybersecurity, where there’s fear, there’s malware.

Right now, we’re dealing with misinformation and uncertainty on large scales regarding the virus. Because of this, threat actors are utilizing this confusion to launch dangerous spear phishing attacks. Third-parties are also developing scam websites and domains on a daily basis. It’s estimated these websites are numbering in the thousands. There are legitimate websites found within the domains, though are outnumbered by fraudulent ones

Some individuals are now working from home too, which increases their chances of coming across these scam attempts. 

The websites operate by containing the phrase “coronavirus” in their domain main. The content varies, but typically offers fraudulent things like vaccines, medication, and loans regarding the virus. 

Attack Types

Mobile User Attacks

Fraudulent web domains and fake emails aren’t the only problems haunting the digital space. Attacks on mobile devices are also common through fake apps and other fraudulent messages. 

Phishing Attacks

Among one of the most prolific attack types are phishing scams. We’ve discussed in general what phishing attacks are: deceptive emails attempting to appear friendly or official in an attempt to steal user information. 

Often, these emails contain anything regarding the COVID-19 virus, ranging from misinformation, offering medical supplies, deals, or even vaccinations. It’s important to recognize them as are artificial and manipulative. Obtain information about Coronavirus only from official sources.

The saturation of these attacks – in relation to COVID-19 – are so vast it’s considered one of the largest cybersecurity attack efforts in recent history, if not ever.

What You Can Do

We’re dealing with an unprecedented combination of threat levels. The Coronavirus pandemic has not only affected lives – personally and professionally – on a global scale but has given rise to devastating cybersecurity threats working in tandem with confusion and fear. Much like you need to sanitize your environment and take steps to avoid contamination, that philosophy carries to your electric body too.

• Ignore and avoid all messages relating to the COVID-19 virus via email or messenger, especially those providing “info” or providing “services,” and instead get your information from official sources
• Keep all programs and anti-malware software up to date
• Businesses should aggressively monitor networks for unusual activity, especially hospitals with dated infrastructure 
• Avoid downloading executables from unverified sources, especially in relation to Coronavirus (the can deliver additional malware payloads and cause more damage)

As for protecting yourself, even in dire circumstances, it’s best to not panic. Reduce contact with others and practice good hygiene.

If you’d like additional information or assistance, Bytagig can help with remote support. Contact us today.