Cybercriminals Are Using COVID-19 to Spread Malware and Steal Information

Cybercriminals are using the COVID-19 pandemic to spread malware onto unsuspecting victims’ PCs.  This malware steals information and sometimes downloads additional malware onto the victim’s PC. These attacks have been ongoing for months around the world with the United States now very much in the crosshairs of the cybercriminals.  Cybercriminals are taking advantage of the public’s thirst for information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. 

One example uses COVID-19 maps that show the spread of the virus.  The malware tricks the users into downloading a malicious application that appears to allow the user to display a map of the global infection rates but is actually infecting the user’s PC.  The malware then steals passwords and other information from the user’s PC.  This attack is being used on multiple websites and will continue to be included in emails and other direct communications.  In addition, there are many other types of scams being used by cybercriminals to trick individuals into opening documents and files that promise information about COVID-19.