Cybersecurity Awareness: COVID-19

Published: March 27, 2020

With all the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, malicious online actors are taking advantage of the situation by feeding off our fears. Coronavirus-related phishing campaigns are on the rise. These campaigns include fake test kits, financial relief payments, fake CDC impersonators offering information about the virus, and more.

Please review the following information and recommendations to help protect yourself online.

  • When browsing information online regarding COVID-19, only visit known and reputable websites. Many websites related to COVID-19 have been reported as fraudulent and malicious. These fraudulent sites often contain fake coronavirus test kits and have fake vaccines you can buy. Downloads on these sites may contain malware.
  • Ensure your passwords on all your online accounts are complex.
  • When using your home Wi-Fi, ensure your network password is strong. Consider updating the admin password to your router especially if it is still the manufacturer's default password.
  • Ensure the device you are using to work remotely and any network devices at your home are up-to-date with the latest security patches.

Contact Mike Wilson at mikewilson@cwi.edu or the IT Help Desk with questions or for more information.

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