Scammers exploit coronavirus fears in new phishing emails

handygal2 · ‎01-19-2015

It was only a matter of time... A new low for scammers.

From NY Newsday - Business

By James T. Madore

Updated March 6, 2020 2:14 PM

Cybercriminals are exploiting concern about the coronavirus to steal consumers’ personal information, and in some cases, to defraud them, officials said.

Phishing email about the coronavirus is being used to steal personal information and infect computer systems with malware and other computer viruses, according to NortonLifeLock Inc., which sells cybersecurity software.

The company, in a notice to customers on Thursday, cited a phishing scam that uses the logo of the Centers for Disease Control Health Alert Network and claims to provide a list of “local active infections” of the coronavirus. When recipients clicked on a link in the email, they “were asked to enter their email login credentials, which were then stolen,” the NortonLifeLock notice said.

CDC on Friday said it's working with law enforcement on another phishing scam that purports to offer steps on how to prevent the spread of coronavirus. When recipients click on the attached Microsoft Office document, their computer is infected with a virus.

"This email is not legitimate, and is actually from a malicious actor hoping to install malware on victim computers," CDC said in a statement. "If opened, the attached document will download and install ransomware called 'Gandcrab' on your computer, encrypting both your local files and files on any network file shares you may have connected to."

Recipients receive a note promising a decryption key in return for a Bitcoin payment, CDC said.

~~Be careful when you follow the masses. Sometimes the 'm' is silent.~~

phoenixbrd · ‎03-27-2010

@handygal2 Appreciate this information. The lesson here is to not open emails that are alarmist or requesting information without researching. I'm sure we are not surprised by this phishing scam.

Important to stay vigilant during this challenge. We are remaining calm, taking practical appropriate actions, and going about our lives with a positive/aware frame of mind.

Thanks for this information.