Cybercrime is already rising globally following the attack on Ukraine
The Russian invasion of Ukraine will likely lead to a significant increase in global cybercrime.
Companies and consumers in the U.S. should be on alert for an increase in the number of phishing emails that contain dangerous malware.
We’ve seen the pattern before: in the past two years, cybercrime goes up when high-profile news stories break. Phishing emails, ransomware, and financial scams targeting U.S. companies and individuals grew significantly during COVID outbreaks, the creation of fiscal stimulus packages, and election controversies. There are already signs that cybercrime linked to the conflict in Ukraine will spread globally.
McAfee® says phishing emails related to the Ukraine attack will be particularly effective. Scammers can easily create highly topical fake emails, and payoffs are large because readers are aware and curious about the topic.
Already a growing threat to companies, ransomware is also evolving quickly. To distribute the new malware, criminals use emails with compelling subject lines designed to get recipients to download and open attachments.
What you can do to protect yourself:
DO slow down when you are reading emails and texts. Be suspicious of any that are particularly urgent.
DO trust your gut. Social engineering scams use scare tactics, threats, and a sense of urgency to get you to act quickly.
DO pay attention: scammers often misspell things or mispronounce things. DO NOT open email attachments or click links unless you know the sender and are expecting the document or information. Scammers are so sophisticated that they can fake email addresses so they look like they are real. Always double-check the sender’s information.
DO NOT give away your User ID, account number, password, or any other personal information. We won’t ask for this information.
DO NOT send personal information through emails or text.
DO NOT rely on caller ID to tell you who is calling. Fraudsters spoof phone numbers to help convince you they are legitimate. Always hang up and call a number you trust. Our team members will never discourage you from taking this step.
DO keep your software updated to get the latest security upgrades.
No reputable financial institution, including Synovus, will ever call, text, or email you to ask for personal information. If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, call 1-888-SYNOVUS (1-888-796-6887) immediately.
Synovus protects you through rigorous security standards, but we always encourage you to learn more about how to protect yourself from common scams in our Personal Resource Center.
Source: Awareforce