Written by: Jay H.
As employees move to a remote environment due to the coronavirus pandemic’s spread, cybersecurity experts say that hackers will follow them, seeking to take advantage of the disorientated workforce.
Hackers are targeting remote workers through several vectors, hoping to trick employees into handing over sensitive information. These methods include: disguising their malicious software as COVID-19-themed alerts, apps, or warnings, or masquerading as government organizations.
The FBI has posted a public service announcement warning people of the increase in cybercrimes stemming from the coronavirus:
“Watch out for emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or other organizations claiming to offer information on the virus,†the organization wrote. “Do not click links or open attachments you do not recognize. Fraudsters can use links in emails to deliver malware to your computer to steal personal information or to lock your computer and demand payment. Be wary of websites and apps claiming to track COVID-19 cases worldwide. Criminals are using malicious websites to infect and lock devices until payment is received.â€
Urgency Of Transitioning Workforce Gives Cybercriminals Opportunities
There are many opportunities for cybercriminals to strike as employees move to remote environments. For instance, employees transfer data from professionally managed work networks to home Wi-Fi setups with basic protection. Also, some organizations have lifted restrictions to permit employers to access work-crucial data from their homes.
Not only that, but many employees use their computers for a combination of work and social matters. So, cybercriminals could gain access via a personal website or email, then obtain work resources located on the computer.
Pushing security measures such as two-factor authentication (2FA) and virtual private networks (VPNs) onto employees may prevent hackers from stealing data. However, the urgency of transitioning the workforce into a remote environment may mean that organizations neglect to install proper security measures.
Hackers target remote workers, so make sure you have proper measures in place and support when you need it. Need help relocating your workplace into a remote environment? If so, make the transition as smooth as possible by consulting with our experts. Let us minimize the headaches involved and set you up quickly and efficiently.
Read more about cybersecurity issues. Also, check out more coronavirus blog posts.
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