SECURITY TIPS

CYBERSECURITY THREATS RELATED

TO COVID-19 

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) indicates cybersecurity threats are increasing at this time and during times of uncertainty. While the banking community is working hard to keep operations running smoothly, threat actors will seek to exploit this emotional situation to commit fraud and/or facilitate crimes.

Currently, the DHS is tracking reports of fraudsters attempting to distribute malware in fake, COVID-19-themed communications via email, web, and mobile applications. It is important to be extra cautious and vigilant during this time when browsing the web or opening emails, especially when content contains links or attachments related to COVID-19. In addition, be skeptical of news sources other than those directly from major health organizations (Centers for Disease Control [CDC] or the World Health Organization [WHO]) and do not install applications or click on links if you do not know or trust the source.

Some examples of communications that are circulating include:

•  Phishing emails containing unofficial information about COVID-19 claiming to originate from official bodies such as the CDC or WHO

•  Malicious apps containing ransomware that claim to provide COVID-19-related tracking, statistics and visual heatmaps

•  Fake COVID-19 websites that have been created to spread malware

The following are good resources about specific cybersecurity threats regarding COVID-19. Using good security protocol, copy and paste these URLs into your browser instead of clicking the link directly, or navigate to the site via your favorite trusted search engine.

Iowa Department of Public Health: https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus

Center for Disease Control:  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html

BE SMART.  BE SECURE.