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16:42 02/04/2020
We’re issuing some advice about how to stay safe online during the current pandemic.
Phishing is a method used by fraudsters to access valuable personal details, such as usernames and passwords.
These can have a monetary value to criminals. Phishing can also involve sending malicious attachments or website links in an effort to infect computers or mobile devices.
Fraudsters may use a variety of tactics to target people and they are known to exploit certain information in a bid to appear authentic.
For example, Action Fraud has recently received over a thousand reports of coronavirus-themed phishing attempts.
Detailed below are some known tactics that have been used in phishing emails related to coronavirus:
Below is an example email, that was received by an organisation in Derbyshire recently.
“I am Mrs X and I know my message will come to you as a surprise but don’t be because I need your help in the disbursement of my family last funds ($9,200,000.00 USD) my husband last wish. And as a victim of Corona-Virus(Covid-19 Virus) I am sending you this mail from my hospital bed. Please do contact my lawyer for more information. Barrister Mr Z Email: ([email protected])”
As you will see from this example, there are some commonalities of phishing emails which can give clues about whether or not they are authentic. These include:
What to do if you've already clicked
If you've already clicked a link (or entered your details into a website), take the following steps:
For more advice about staying safe online in Derbyshire you can contact Derbyshire Constabulary’s Cyber Protect Officer, Jodie Nevin on Jodie.Nevin @Derbyshire.Police.UK.