Kingsley Hayes MD at data breach and cybersecurity specialist Hayes Connor Solicitors
By Legal Futures’ Hayes Connor Solicitors
The coronavirus crisis has led to an increase in phishing campaigns as cyber criminals take advantage of a heightened demand for information and a greater reliance on technology.
The RiskIQ 13 Intelligence Report identified a greater risk of phishing campaigns including the use of fake domains purporting to be trusted information sources such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Kingsley Hayes, managing director at data breach and cybercrime specialist Hayes Connor Solicitors, said: “Cyber criminals are always ready to leverage opportunities and now more than ever, people, and IT systems, are particularly vulnerable to scams. Forced homeworking, a greater reliance on technology, and a heightened appetite for information, provide a perfect recipe for scammers.
“UK Action Fraud reported an increase in phishing emails relating to Covid-19 with a loss of £800k by victims in one month since February. Individuals, and organisations, are arguably more vulnerable to scams now than in previous health outbreaks.
“The lockdown means a greater dependence on technology – not only to continue working, but to keep up-to-date with developments, shop and connect with family and friends.
“Fear, anxiety and uncertainty are a dangerous cocktail. Individuals who would normally be vigilant to scams will simply not be in the right frame of mind at a time when hypervigilance is essential to protecting both people and businesses.”
For more information about Hayes Connor Solicitors, visit the website at www.hayesconnor.co.uk
