Scammers try to cash in on fears over COVID-19

CYBERCRIME and scams are something that I have written about in the past, but unfortunately, they are not going away. We now have an irreversible reliance on technology in all aspects of our lives and the line between personal and business use continues to blur – we’re all in the cloud, whether we like it or not!

COVID-19 played into the hands of the cybercriminal creating an opportunity with what is known as ‘Crisis Scams.’ The lockdown crisis caused fear, uncertainty and doubt for many of us and this was exploited by the criminal underworld.

The increase in such criminal activity was predicted by many national cyber security agencies as they saw a surge in websites being registered using the word ‘covid.’ These fake websites then formed the basis for many of the scams, as a link was created and sent to many potential victims either through text messages or emails.

One such scam that quickly circulated was a text message saying someone that you had come in contact with has shown symptoms of COVID-19 and recommended that you isolate and get tested. The message provided a link to a fake website where you were asked to pay for the test.

Other scams referred to the Government’s COVID unemployment payments of €350 and asked you to provide your banking details so that they could transfer the money into your account.

Another recent scam is around parcel deliveries. With increased on-line shopping many people are waiting for goods to be delivered to their homes. Scammers can either phone, claiming that you owe them either delivery fees or import tax and demand your credit card details; or text you with a link to their fake delivery/customs website.

More recently I have seen an increase in companies offering a service to recoup airline fares and other holiday payments for people that couldn’t travel due to the restrictions.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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