Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, cybercriminals have jumped at the chance to make money off our fears. The World Health Organization (WHO) warned in February 2020 about scams linked to the virus. These scams try to make people worried about the virus spreading. They pretend to be from real groups like the WHO and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The pandemic has led to more COVID-19-related domains being created, many of which are likely harmful. Scammers use different ways to trick people, like fake test sites, phone calls, social media, and even going door-to-door. This shows how widespread these scams have become.
Key Takeaways
- Cybercriminals are quick to take advantage of global events, like the COVID-19 pandemic, to spread disinformation and seek financial gain.
- Scammers are impersonating legitimate organisations, such as the WHO and CDC, to advertise new phishing schemes and COVID-19-related scams.
- The pandemic has led to a surge in the registration of COVID-19-related domains, many of which are suspected to be used for malicious purposes.
- Scammers are utilising a variety of methods, including testing sites, telemarketing calls, social media, and door-to-door visits, to perpetrate COVID-19-related fraud.
- Individuals are urged to be cautious of unexpected calls or visitors offering COVID-19 tests or supplies, as these may be part of a scam.
The Rise of Phishing Scams During COVID-19
During the COVID-19 pandemic, scammers have taken advantage of the situation. Phishing attacks have been a common scam since the pandemic started. They pretend to be from trusted health groups like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
These scams try to get victims to click on harmful links or download dangerous files. They use COVID-19 tests, maps, or safety info as bait. The pandemic has led to more COVID-19-related domains being registered, many for phishing and selling fake goods.
Phishing Campaigns Targeting Geographical Hotspots
Scammers are focusing on areas with high COVID-19 rates, like Japan and Italy. They use fake news about new cases and safety steps to trick people. They aim to get victims to share personal info or give access to their computers remotely.
Phishing cases went up by 220% during the pandemic peak, and 2020 saw a 15% increase in phishing incidents. Scammers use advanced methods, like real HTTPS certificates and non-standard SSL/TLS ports, to make their sites look real.
The COVID-19 pandemic has opened new doors for scammers. Australians need to be careful with unsolicited emails, messages, or offers about COVID-19. By staying alert, people can avoid falling into these phishing traps.
Phone scams and the pandemic
Scammers are using the COVID-19 pandemic to trick Australians with phone scams. They pretend to be from government agencies, healthcare providers, and other groups. Their goal is to get victims to share personal or financial details, or to buy things they don't need.
Many Australians have gotten suspicious emails, text messages, and calls about COVID-19. These include offers for fake testing kits or vaccines. Scammers especially target older Australians, who might be more likely to fall for these scams. The Australian government's Scamwatch website has seen a big jump in phishing and scams linked to COVID-19.
Scammers are counting on people being more online and unsure during the pandemic. They might say they're helping with government aid, proof of vaccination, or COVID-19 services. But really, they want to steal your personal or financial info, or sell you things you don't need.
To avoid these scams, be careful with any calls, emails, or texts that seem out of the blue. Always check if offers or requests are real by contacting the organisation directly through official ways.
By staying alert and informed, Australians can protect themselves and their families from these scams. It's key to report any weird activity to the Scamwatch website and tell others to spread the word. This helps stop more people from getting scammed.
Fraudulent Sales of Counterfeit Goods
The COVID-19 pandemic has made counterfeit goods more common. Scammers are now targeting the high demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical supplies. Many shady websites have popped up, offering cheap or free COVID-19 vaccines, masks, and sanitiser.
These sites might not send you the items you order, or they could give you malware. On dark web marketplaces, scammers sell fake medical gear, taking advantage of the pandemic's high demand.
- In March 2020, the UK's National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) found over 21 COVID-19 fraud cases, causing losses of more than £800,000.
- Digital Shadows (now ReliaQuest) found over 1,400 domains linked to COVID-19 scams in the last three months.
- China makes about 80% of the world's face masks, being the biggest supplier.
When buying COVID-19 products online, be careful with unknown sites. Always buy from trusted, official sites. Be sceptical of offers that seem too cheap. Authorities are looking into these scams and ask everyone to stay alert and informed.
The COVID-19 Infodemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, scams and phishing attacks have risen. So has the spread of false information. The World Health Organization calls this an "infodemic". Cybercriminals spread lies about the virus, its treatments, and how to prevent it through social media and messaging apps.
This fake news can cause panic and lead people to try dangerous home remedies. It also makes medical supplies scarce. Governments, social media, and the WHO are fighting back. But, it's up to us to check our info against official government and healthcare websites.
Misinformation Campaigns and Social Media
Cybercriminals took advantage of our need for info during the pandemic. They used fake websites and social media platforms to spread fraudulent claims about COVID-19 vaccination cards, cures, and other scams using the novel coronavirus. These scams can make people share personal info or fall for government impersonation scams and romance scams.
The Federal Trade Commission has seen a big jump in consumer complaints related to COVID-19. This shows we need to be more careful. Always check info on secure websites and approved sources.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic has made Australia a target for scammers and cybercriminals. Australians need to watch out for many scams, like phishing and fake government calls. These scams have grown as people feel more vulnerable during hard times.
It's key to report any scam suspicions to the authorities to stop these bad acts. Always check if COVID-19 info or deals are real to avoid scams. By being informed and taking steps to protect ourselves, we can keep our families safe.
The COVID-19 pandemic shows how important it is to know about online safety. We must work together to report scams, teach others, and improve our online security. This way, we can make Australia safer, even when facing big challenges. Get help with identifying a number and checking if it is safe!
FAQ
What are some common COVID-19 phone scams targeting Australians?
Scammers pretend to be from government agencies, health providers, and other groups. They try to get personal or financial info from Australians. Or they want you to buy things you don't need. They might offer fake COVID-19 testing kits or vaccines. Or ask for your vaccination proof.
How have phishing scams increased during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Phishing has gone up a lot, with scammers acting like health groups like the WHO and CDC. They try to get you to click on links or download documents that say they have important info or maps about the virus. They also target areas with a lot of COVID-19 cases.
What types of fraudulent goods are scammers selling during the pandemic?
Scammers are selling fake healthcare items like face masks and hand sanitiser because there's a big shortage. They make websites that look like they're selling these items cheap or even for free. But they might not send you anything, or they could give you malware instead.
How have scammers used misinformation to exploit the COVID-19 pandemic?
Cybercriminals spread false info on social media and messaging apps about the virus, cures, and how to prevent it. This fake news can make people panic. It can lead to bad advice on what to do at home. And it can cause shortages of important medical stuff.
What should Australians do to protect themselves from COVID-19 related scams?
Australians should always be careful and check if COVID-19 info or offers are real. If you think a scam is happening, tell the right people. This includes the Australian Cybercrime Reporting Network and the Federal Communications Commission.
