Since the outbreak of the 2019 Coronavirus (COVID-19), we have
seen a targeted focus by cyber criminals to capitalise on the
crisis.
This update is a reminder to warn staff to remain vigilant
against such activity, particularly as many workplaces encourage
staff to work remotely, reducing the likelihood of face to face and
telephonic communications (which increases the effectiveness of
scams).
Background to Coronavirus scams
As at 11 March 2020, the World Health Organisation
(WHO) reports there are currently 118,326 cases of
COVID-19 confirmed across 114 countries, with the outbreak
officially now classified as a pandemic.[1]
We know that cybercrime peaks in times of crises or significant
world events, with cyber criminals capitalising on public concern
and confusion. In Australia we have seen this most recently with
the bushfires and other headline news stories.[2]
