Cybercriminal activity is always evolving, and now hackers are banking on the novel coronavirus having potential victims distracted when clicking a link.
Hackers are capitalizing on fears and the quest for information by creating malicious websites disguised as popular COVID-19 maps. When unsuspecting users click on the map, they are prompted to open an applet. This software infects the computer and opens the device to hackers looking to steal valuable information like login credentials and financials.
To avoid malware, users should verify the URL of the website is legitimate and avoid downloads from unknown sources. The COVID-19 map from Johns Hopkins University is a trusted link.
Our partners at Sophos recently reported on a phishing scam using coronavirus information as bait. Hackers are posing as health officials like the CDC or World Health Organization with the goal of tricking email recipients into disclosing their login credentials in exchange for information on the spread of the virus or prevention measures.
One way to make sure a link is legitimate is to hover your mouse over the link in the email. Hovering over the link will reveal the real URL where you will be sent if you click on the link. A suspicious link won’t contain the website you want to go to and may redirect to a website designed to steal your information or infect your device.
Stay vigilant online and don’t let hackers scam you out of your valuable personal information!
