Cyber Fraud by Covid-19

The coronavirus has led to a sharp increase in cyber frauds, as cybercriminals have increased their attempts at fraud, mainly on issues related to the sale of medical supplies; helping to settle debts; unauthorized purchases; alleged blocking of cards, extension of credits or donations for humanitarian purposes. Don’t be surprised, their only purpose is to steal bank keys, your personal data and money.

In Whatsapp hundreds of messages circulate with tips to fight the coronavirus, a large part of these messages contain malicious links that look for your data in exchange for offering you supposed help.

Through social media you are also asked to support with donations for people who have no way of coping with the Covid-19. You are asked to enter your personal data and account numbers. This is where cyber frauds occurs.

Phishing: In this type of cyber frauds, the cybercriminal impersonates the identity of a reputable institution, such as the WHO or any other, and taking advantage of the global concern about the Covid-19, to steal your personal data, bank details or even infect your computer with malware.

Smishing (SMS): A very popular fraud is sending SMS pretending to be a government agency, sharing a link where they request a series of personal data supposedly needed to process a request for some economic benefit to deal with Covid-19.

Scams on the sale of sanitary equipment (online shopping): Scammers try to benefit from products related to the Covid-19. Check user reviews on sites, where fraud has been identified with the online sale of equipment, covercovers, and masks.

Coronaware (ransomware): Attachments may contain malware that ends up infecting your computer and subtracting your personal data.

The Government issues cards: Messages in which the Government supposedly gives money to bear the consequences of Covid-19 and to receive it it is necessary to enter a link. Beware! First confirm if the source is reliable, you can do it through its official pages.

Fraudulent job offers: False job offers circulate in Whatsapp. Taking advantage of this difficult situation, cybercriminals send you links where you must provide your personal data.

Remember, if in doubt, contact Bandala | Díaz | García.