Relief Check Phishing Attacks

As we all know, the “bad guys” are taking advantage of the COVID-19 situation by attacking our fears. This is no different.

Be careful! There are many recent phishing attacks related to anticipated economic relief checks. They’re trying to capitalize on the anxiety that people are feeling right now.

Often these emails ask for just a click of a button to confirm that their mailing address on their 2018 or 2019 tax return is correct.

Below is a note from a partner of ours who forwarded along this message from a Chief Compliance Officer in the insurance industry:

“Lots of reports of malware getting launched as people respond to phishing emails related to their anticipated economic relief checks which people can expect to receive soon. Often these emails ask for just a click of a button to confirm that their mailing address on their 2018 or 2019 tax return is correct. These also do not ask for any user input of information which also may cause people to think the email may be legit or of low risk.

These phishing attacks are trying to capitalize on the economic anxiety that many people are feeling right now. So might be worth a quick word to the rank and file to not click any links or open any attachments from sources claiming that the email is related to their receipt of economic relief.”

As always, think before you click!