Coronavirus Scams on the Rise: Tactics to Know

While more and more employees are working from home, the FBI warns that scammers are working hard to take advantage of loopholes. Your best defense? Be aware of the tactic and practice good cyber hygiene and security to protect yourself.

Counterfeit Stimulus Check Promise

Criminals may send unsolicited emails promising an economic stimulus check after you enter in your personal information.

Tip: This should be a red flag, as the government will never ask for your personal information in an email! Never enter in any of the following personal information from a link: username, password, date of birth, social security number, financial data, or other personal information.

Phishing Emails

Criminals are sending out emails posing as legitimate medical and or health organizations, enticing recipients to reveal personal information such as passwords and credit card numbers. Others have attachments with information supposedly about the Coronavirus that may require you to enter in credentials or infect your computer with malware.

Tip: Don’t click on attachments or links when you don’t know the sender. Never enter in your personal credentials from an attachment or link in an email. Go directly to the website to find credible information.

Fraudulent Charitable Causes

Criminals are exploiting the generous nature of individuals, requesting donations via social media and other ads related to Coronavirus.

Tip: Be cautious and do your due diligence before donating to a charitable organization. Check for wrong domains (“.com” instead of “.gov”) and misspellings within the link.

Medical Supply Scam

Criminals advertise in-demand medical supplies that can be used to prevent, treat, diagnose, or cure the COVID-19 Coronavirus. They’ll demand upfront payment and never complete delivery of ordered product.

Tip: Verify the company by inputting the website domain yourself. If your browser gives an SSL error, this should be a warning sign that the site isn’t trusted.

While you may be temporarily distracted by pets, children, or fear of a deadly virus, don’t let down your guard. Stay focused to prevent cyber criminals from preying on you.

Related articles:

• SCOTUS Blocks Vaccine Mandate: “OSHA Lacks Authority”
• Benchmarking Employee Benefits: How Do You Compare?
• Can Employers Ask for Proof of Vaccination?
• What is the COBRA Subsidy? (And Do I Qualify?)