The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are warning consumers about increasing numbers of fraudulent schemes spoofing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) with information related to COVID-19. In an alert, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center warns consumers about the various phishing scams, which might be in the form of an email, text or phone call or robocall and associated with the stimulus check (requesting you give your credentials or bank information), information about someone testing positive at K-State, health insurance, selling fake products, etc.
Cybercriminals often take advantage of uncertain times to trick users into responding to an email, text or phone call and divulging sensitive information such as your eID/password, downloading an executable file, downloading an attachment, clicking on a link, sending you to a malicious URL, etc. Be vigilant about communications related to COVID-19.
Tips from the Federal Trade Commission:
- Don’t click on links or download attachments from sources you don’t know. They could download viruses onto your computer or device.
- Watch for emails, texts or phone calls claiming to be from the CDC, WHO, or a health care provider, saying that they have information about the virus. For the most up-to-date information about the Coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Instead of clicking the link in an email, cut and paste the correct link into your browser such as cdc.gov.
- Ignore online offers for test kits, vaccinations, health insurance selling products, etc. This information will not come in an email, phone call or text.
- Verify a charity before making a donation. Don’t rush into making a donation. If someone wants donations in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, don’t do it.
- Make sure your antivirus software and operating systems are up-to-date and your system is free of malware.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact the IT Help Desk (helpdesk@ksu.edu or 785-532-7722).
