The effects of the COVID-19 virus on individuals has created an opportunity for cybercriminals. It is important to be vigilant with online interactions, reviewing information or news, and protecting your personal privacy.
Remote Work:
With the recent “Stay-at-home” orders by local government and actions taken by businesses, an increased number of individuals are working from home. Be aware that even on the UNT VPN, working from home changes the way your computer is interacting with the internet. Websites you browse are no longer being filtered and your system can be exposed to greater risk. Follow university guidelines for computer and system use. Review the following website for guidance if needed:
https://healthalerts.unt.edu/cybersecurity-safeguards-working-remotely
Malware/Phishing/Ransomware:
An increase number of Malware, Ransomware, and Phishing attacks have been detected and reported as early as January of 2020. Emails and Websites that reference and provide information about COVID-19 are being used to target unsuspecting users.
Scams/Fake News:
A recent increase in COVID-19 specific malicious messages and phone calls that use social engineering to create shock, anxiety, or fear to cause individuals to take action that is not in their best interest has been on the rise.
Types of recent attacks that have been reported include free public offers (free phones), up front sales for items in short supply, home-test kits, donation calls for COVID-19 related charity, or fear attempts such as National Guard/CDC locking down the country.
Here is an example of a recent Fake News item:
Here are some suggestions to protect yourself from the attack:
To check for a list of ongoing scams you can review any of the following websites:
https://www.fcc.gov/covid-scams
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/coronavirus-scams-what-ftc-doing
https://www.fda.gov/emergency-preparedness-and-response/mcm-issues/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19
For information about UNT and COVID-19 please see the following site:
https://www.untsystem.edu/covid-19