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COVID-19 Cybersecurity Alert

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COVID- 19 Cybersecurity Alert

March 12, 2020

Malicious cyber actors are preying on fear to take advantage of the concern surrounding COVID-19. We have combined cybersecurity alerts from the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Trade Commission to share with you. 

These bad actors send out mass phishing attacks against our campus community and the general public. Phishing attacks use a combination of scare tactics, organization and charity impersonation, and reputable looking websites to trick victims into clicking links, entering credentials, and revealing sensitive information. 

Only use trusted resources- such as legitimate government websites- for up-to-date, fact-based information about COVID-19.

5 Digital Self-Defense Tips

Do NOT
  1. Click on links or download attachments from an email that you weren’t expecting or if you haven't verified the information from a reputable search, or offline.
  2. Share personal or financial information in emails.
  3. Respond to emails asking for personal or financial information.
Do
  1. Save important verified websites in your browser's Favorites or Bookmark folder.
  2. Save important verified contacts in your email's Safe Sender or Contact List.

5 Emotional Scare Tactics

1. Panic Warnings and Urgent Directions

That appear to be from reputable organizations or charities such as:

  • CDC (Centers for Disease Control)
  • WHO (World Health Organizations)
2. Pressured and Rushed Donations
  • Research Studies
  • Doctors
  • COVID-19 Victim Charities
3. Urgency of New Cases and Testing Data in Your Area

Continue to rely on reputable sources such as the CDC, WHO, and the Oklahoma State Department of Health COVID-19 page.

4. Miracle Cure Products and Vaccine Intimidation

Miracle products that claim to 'immediately cure' a wide range of diseases or intimidation promises of medicines and vaccines.

5. Relentless and Aggressive

In getting you to take action when you've been hesitant or said no.

Need more information?

For more cybersecurity tips, visit the Department of Homeland Security site and the Federal Trade Commission site.

If you receive a suspicious email, have questions about the validity of a message, or the IT Training, Education, & Awareness program, please contact the appropriate campus IT Service Desk.