Hackers are using COVID-19 as bait

Back in June 2020, we warned that businesses must stay protected against the cyber pandemic.

Three months on, Deloitte’s “COVID-19’s Impact on Cybersecurity” report has revealed that there has been a significant spike in phishing attacks, Malspams and ransomware attacks.

Deloitte has said that “attackers are using COVID-19 as bait to impersonate brands, thereby misleading employees and customers. This will likely result in more infected personal computers and phones.”

No business is safe

An increase in cyber attacks was inevitable during this time. Deloitte has warned that:

“Organisations should take proactive steps by advising their staff and customers to be more vigilant and cautious especially when opening links, emails or documents related to the subject COVID-19.”

Businesses of all sizes are being targeted. The company’s latest report has revealed that end users who download COVID-19 related applications are also being tricked into downloading ransomware disguised as legitimate applications

Don’t let patch management slip

The “COVID-19’s Impact on Cybersecurity” report also reveals that the functioning of cyber security teams during this time may have been impaired because of the pandemic, which has made the detection of malicious activities by hackers difficult to trace and respond.

Patch management will be a challenge for many organisations during this time.

‘Patch management’ helps organisations to keep their devices and systems up to date and it is a requirement of Cyber Essentials certification that all devices, software and apps are up to date.

For the most part, this is easy to achieve if you remember to install the patches – the Government recommends setting devices to automatically update where possible. Remember, system updates don’t just fix bugs, they increase security.

Stay secure with Cyber Essentials

COVID-19 is set to change professional life forever. With new work styles and new cybersecurity issues arising, ensure that your business is cyber secure.

Officially backed by the UK Government, Cyber Essentials is a great solution for businesses looking to improve their cyber security settings and standing. By implementing five simple key controls, you can protect your business from up to 80% of common cyber security threats.

Find out more about our packages and get started with your Cyber Essentials certification.