Governments Introduce Coronavirus-specific Cybercrime Legislation

Governments and organisations globally have been making announcements that just
a few weeks prior would have been unprecedented. As more of our lives are moving
online in an attempt to adapt to changes brought about by the Coronavirus
pandemic, many are trying out services they were previously unfamiliar with, such
as video conferencing or online grocery shopping. While others are finding
themselves with more time to pursue online hobbies such as gaming.

The combined effect of information overload and a mass of people using
unfamiliar software and services has created an environment ripe for
exploitation by cybercriminals.

Netcraft has tracked Coronavirus-themed cybercrime since 16th March, shortly
after it was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation. While Netcraft continues to see
high volumes of Coronavirus-inspired fake shops, advanced fee fraud, phishing
and malware lures, this post covers some of the trends Netcraft has observed
since our previous posts
on the topic.

Recently observed Coronavirus-themed threats

Fake Government information sites and mobile malware

Many governments have set up dedicated websites offering advice and services to
support their citizens through the pandemic. Cybercriminals are taking advantage
of this by providing copy-cat sites with a malicious twist.

In one recent campaign, the cybercriminals deployed a site that poses as the UK
Government and offers “credit card refunds” for “COVID-19 support”. The
fraudulent site uses UK Government branding and collects the victim’s personal
information – including their credit card number, date of birth and telephone
number.