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Protect your business from IT hackers during Coronavirus

Posted By: / April 14, 2020

Amongst all of the kindness and positivity we have seen from our local community, key workers and our fantastic NHS in this country, unfortunately the Coronavirus pandemic has led to an increase in hackers who are praying upon people's vulnerabilities right now.  In the five days leading up to the lockdown, more scams were found compared to the 90 days before the lockdown.

With many people now working from home, a greater number of devices being set up than ever before on the same network (ie: kids ipads as well as your work laptop), now is the time to make sure you're keeping your tech equipment safe.

Although this post has not been written by an IT expert (although I did manage to connect my wireless printer, so that's a win!), please bear some of these hacks in mind and speak to a proper IT professional or do your own research to make sure you are keeping your tech safe. 

1. Keep an eye out for hacks

There are so many out at the moment, but be careful about clicking on a map which shows the 'live Cornonavirus cases.' Unless this is from a reputable news source, this puts you at risk. By clicking on this map, you are compromising your PC and your anti-virus software won't protect you.

Be aware that HMRC won't text or email you to ask for your details in order to give you a rebate. 

2. Make sure your anti-virus software is up to date

Double check your protection as now is the time when you will be increasingly vulnerable to hacks and scams. And make sure you install all the updates on your software. IT providers will be finding scams all the time now, and will be providing you with protection via updates to your software. Protect your PC and implement the updates.

3. Keep your wifi network safe

If the kids are accessing the wifi, you might want to speak to your internet provider to see if they can set up guest wifi on your account. That way, you can be certain that the guest wifi is safe and unlikely to be subject to any hacks that your kids might have fallen pray to.

4. Use two-factor authenticator

If you're spending more time on social media, you might want to set up two-factor authenticator. This basically means that before you can log in to a social media account, you'll be asked to verify that it's you in two different ways (in case somebody hacks your password). This is normally done via a third party Authenicator app. It will vary according to each app, so spend a little time researching the best way to do this.

5. Be careful with your passwords

Now is the time to keep your passwords extra-safe. Consider using a tool such as LastPass to keep your passwords safe.

6. Be aware of paying invoices twice or payment details changing

Some hackers may get in to a company's database and send out a Payment Notice to say that due to Coronavirus, can you please amend the payment details to a new account. Never do this, always verify with the company first. Check out www.checkaninvoice.com as well.

Have you seen a Coronavirus scam that you'd like to share with your friends and neighbours at Bucks Biz? Comment via the form as we'd love to share them to keep our business community safe!