Cyber criminals are opportunistic and will look to exploit people’s fears, and this has undoubtedly been the case with the coronavirus outbreak, according to the UK official National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). For example, bogus emails claim to have important updates, only once links are clicked on, lead to devices being infected.
Paul Chichester, Director of Operations at the NCSC, said: “Our advice to the public is to follow our guidance, which includes everything from password advice to spotting suspect emails. In the event that someone does fall victim to a phishing attempt, they should look to report this to Action Fraud as soon as possible.”
The NCSC says that it has seen an increase in the registration of webpages relating to the virus. These attacks are versatile and can be conducted through various media, adapted to different sectors and monetised via multiple means, including ransomware, credential theft, bitcoin or fraud, according to the NCSC.
The NCSC points to its online guidance, on how to spot and deal with suspicious emails; and mitigate and defend against malware and ransomware.
Among examples, in February, the World Health Organisation (WHO) warned of fraudulent emails sent by criminals posing as the WHO. This followed a warning from the US Federal Trade Commission about scammers spreading phishing ‘clickbait’ via email and social media, as well as creating fraudulent websites to sell fake anti-viral equipment. Also impersonated is the US Center for Disease Control (CDC), whereby scammers have created domain names similar to the CDC ..
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