Top Derry police officer Gordon McCalmont warns cyber-criminals are using COVID-19 as bait for phishing scams

He urged people in the city to adopt good cyber-security measures while working from home.

“During this unprecedented situation, it is becoming more evident that criminals are exploiting coronavirus online by sending phishing/scam emails to try and trick users into clicking a bad link.

“If clicked, these links could lead to malware infection and loss of data like passwords. The scams may claim to have a ‘cure’ for the virus, offer a financial reward, by encouraging you to donate money or even just provide a link that will allegedly take you to the latest guidance.

“These ‘phishing’ attempts have been seen in several countries and can lead to loss of money and sensitive data. The email may use the subject coronavirus or COVID-19 as a lure, however you should be suspicious of any unexpected emails you receive,” he said.

Supt. McCalmont said there were five ways to help spot potential scams.

1. The email asks you to confirm personal information.

2. The web and email addresses do not look genuine or are from unusual domains.

3. It’s poorly written, e.g. there are spelling mistakes or grammatical errors.

4. There’s a suspicious attachment.

5. The message creates a sense of urgency or makes you think you will benefit by clicking.

“Phishing/scam emails may appear authentic and be difficult to spot, therefore if you receive any suspicious internal emails or any emails that ‘don’t feel right’, it is important that you do not click on any attachment or link,” said Supt. McCalmont.

Derry & Strabane PCSP chair, Colr. Sandra Duffy, said: “It is important, especially, at this time when many of us are working from home or are online more, to ensure we take measures to protect ourselves from online fraud.”