Data Security Threats during Lockdown

April 7, 2020

At the current time everyone is struggling to cope with the Covid-19 pandemic.  There are limited goods, greater anxiety, restrictions on movement and an increase in home working.  Unfortunately, these conditions also present opportunities to criminals and there has been an increase in cyber attacks and frauds.

Cyber Attacks

Many organisations have had to move to home working very quickly and that means there will be instances where usual security protocols may not have been followed. In addition, with more remote working, there are opportunities for more phishing attacks. Common schemes include receiving bogus emails claiming to include important links to more information on Coronavirus. The National Cyber Security Centre has reported an increase in the number of websites registered relating to the Coronavirus suggesting that criminals are likely to be taking advantage of the pandemic.

There are a number of resources available which are worth considering to help against cyber attacks which include:

The National Cyber Security Centre guide to home working can be found by clicking here

The Centre for Protection of National Infrastructure has produced high level guidance on security practices during pandemics which can be found by clicking here.

The National Cyber Security Centre have a guide on spotting and dealing with phishing emails which can be found by clicking here.

Frauds

There are a large number of frauds taking place which are taking advantage of the current schemes. One example is that Europol are currently investigating a €6.6 million transfer to a company in Singapore in order to purchase alcohol gels and face masks where the goods were never received. There have been a number of cases where criminals have been impersonating government officials, police or medical/health professionals to gain access to properties.

Unfortunately, it is even more important to stay vigilant in an already testing time.

Stay safe

Alexander Sloan