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Beware of COVID-19 scams!

By May 4, 2020No Comments

Beware of COVID-19 scams 

Amid pandemics and other world crises, it’s common to see an increase in fraudulent activity. This is especially true with scams related to COVID-19. We want to remind you to be especially cautious of the following types of scams:

  • Malicious websites: Scammers will often try to incorporate keywords or phrases into websites to get you to click. Be sure the site is credible before entering your personal information.
  • Spam emails: Fraudulent emails may try to capture your curiosity by using catchphrases to sell information or goods that are in high demand such as masks, hand sanitizers or vitamins.
  • Phishing scams: Scammers have crafted emails that appear to come from organizations such as Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the World Health Organization (WHO), but actually contain malicious phishing links or dangerous attachments.
  • Pop-up scams: This is a type of phishing scam where a pop-up box appears and states that you won a prize and requesting you to pay or give up personal information. This is a scam, RTC will never ask for your personal information in a pop-up or ask you to pay to collect a prize.
  • Fake charities: Beware of emails and websites that ask for charity donations for studies, doctors or victims that have been affected by the COVID-19 virus.
  • Impostors: Be cautious of anyone who knocks on your door and claims they are a health official.

Helpful security tips

Here are some helpful tips on how to safeguard your computer and mobile devices:

  • Set a strong password or passphrase for your devices.
  • Log out completely and close web browsers after using any site.
  • Computers can be vulnerable to malware attacks. Consider installing security software to protect the information on your device. RTC offers a TechHome service that includes SecureIT Plus it may be included with your Wi-Fi Package. Call us for details.
  • Exercise caution when downloading apps, especially those that ask for unnecessary permissions.
  • Install phone updates.
  • RTC offers Password Genie which stores your passwords in one secure location. It can also generate strong passwords. If you need to store sensitive information, we recommend using a top rated secure password keeper such as this. If you do not have a secure password keeper app, avoid storing sensitive information like passwords or a social security number on your devices.
  • Be careful about opening links and attachments from unknown senders.
  • Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi connections, as they’re not always secure.

Be sure to remain alert for fraud amid the COVID-19 outbreak.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a special page set up with warnings about the latest Coronavirus (COVID-19) scams and misinformation. FTC Safety Tips