A recent article published by IOL quotes the director of the Centre for Cyber Security at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), Professor Basie von Solms as saying;
“It is going to be a problem and it is going to get bigger. The whole supply chain of providing these vaccines is going to be done via cyberspace, so it is a big risk,”
“The people that have access to sensitive data, they must be trained and be aware of the attacking methods that cyber criminals use because hackers normally go for the weakest link in the supply chain and in this case it is the end user; the person who is handling the computer.”
Be vigilant, be sceptical and be safe
This follows a recent warning sounded by INTERPOL (The International Criminal Police Organization) for law enforcement agencies to be aware of scams and cybercrime activity;
“Criminal networks will also be targeting unsuspecting members of the public via fake websites and false cures, which could pose a significant risk to their health, even their lives.
“It is essential that law enforcement is as prepared as possible for what will be an onslaught of all types of criminal activity linked to the COVID-19 vaccine, which is why INTERPOL has issued this global warning,” concluded Secretary General Stock.
Interpol also went on to offer the following advice;
“To avoid falling victim to online scams, it is important to be vigilant, be sceptical, and be safe, as offers which appear too good to be true usually are.”
These warnings shine a bright light on the increasing levels of cybercrime in our country and the cyber risk we as individuals are being exposed to as cybercriminals continue to target end-users.
How you can stay safe online
And while cybercrime is an on-going and expanding threat, there are some simple things you can do to keep yourself safe online:
- Keep your software updated. These updates usually include improved security features.
- Use strong passwords. Your number 1 line of defense in preventing cybercriminals from hacking your accounts.
- Keep up to date with news around data breaches and cybercrime. Knowledge is power. Be aware and be alert.
- Don’t shop or bank online while on an unsecured network. Cybercriminals can gain access to your personal details through unsecured networks such as free wi-fi at a shopping centre.
- If it’s too good to be true…it probably is. Use this rule of thumb on all platforms you are using.
- Get Covered. Personal Cyber Insurance is here and is extremely powerful in offering financial protection from cyber threats.
Find out more about our Cyber Rescue product here – complete the form to have a professional cyber insurance consultant contact you and assist with getting you covered.
