New Phishing Attacks During This Pandemic

Since the Coronavirus pandemic emerged, there has been many new phishing attacks affecting businesses now that remote working has become a popular option. The scammers are taking advantage of this situation and using new means of attack.

One of the main phishing attacks they are using is targeting emails or text messages appearing to be part of legitimate organisations with information about the Coronavirus to catch the users attention through fear, however embedding them with malicious links or unsafe files. They are getting evermore clever with their approach, making it even more difficult to spot the signs.

Here’s what to look out for:

• Check the email address – Sometimes the display name can be an organisation that you would trust but when you check the actual email address it will be something obscure.
• Types of emails your not expecting – These can be claiming to have a list of Coronavirus cases in your area, a guide for safety measures, making changes to company policies etc.
• Personal information – As always, be aware of anyone asking for any personal information by email or payment to a staff member.
• Check spelling and grammar – Sometimes the email can have spelling/ grammar mistakes and the layout of the email may not be as you’d expect from a reputable company.
• Check how they address you – Some large phishing attacks will be generic, including how they address you such as ‘Dear Sir/ Madam’.
• Act now emails – A lot of malicious attacks will insist urgency on the email and to act now.
• Emails or text from HMRC – The HMRC has released guidance information on how to know if it genuine communication from them which can be found on the gov.uk website to show examples published.

If you are ever unsure of an email, DO NOT open any URL’s or attachments and always contact us to investigate further. Always take precautions with any emails you receive unexpectedly.

Increase your email security now… Use Our solution to help prevent these attacks:

Anti-Spam Filtering along with Phishing Protection and Attachment Sandboxing. Our complete Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) package covers all three of these solutions to give you the email security you need.

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If you have any questions or need any advice at all, please get in touch. We’re here to help!

01246 861100 or help@sbk.co.uk