Beware of Coronavirus (COVID-19) Phishing Scams
by Neal Fisch in attacks, awareness, coronavirus, counterfeit websites, COVID-19, data security, faculty, phishing scams, security, spear phishing attack, staff, students
Most of us have seen and read in the news about the Coronavirus outbreak, currently known as SARS-CoV-2 or Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). We wanted to remind you that during media intense events like this, cyber attackers take advantage of this opportunity and attempt to scam you or launch phishing attacks that attempt to get you to click on malicious links or open infected email attachments. Here are some of the most common indicators that the phone call or email you received is most likely a scam or attack (additional information on identifying scam phone calls and emails may be found at the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information website).
- Any messages that communicates a tremendous sense of urgency. The bad guys are trying to rush you into making a mistake.
- Any message that pressures you into bypassing or ignoring our security policies and procedures.
- Any message that promotes miracle cures, such as vaccines or medicine that will protect you. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Be very suspicious of any phone call or message that pretends to be an official or government organization urging you to take immediate action.
For the latest updates consider visiting the World Health Organization website on Health and Disease Control, the Center for Disease Control website, or our own CSUCI Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information website. Please keep in mind Coronavirus scams and attacks can happen at work or at home, via email, text messaging or even over the phone. Don’t fall victim to bad guys playing on your emotions.
If you feel you have received a phishing attack at work, simply delete the message or if you have concerns report it to your information security team.
