COVID-19 Remote Work Safety Tips

COVID-19 Remote Work Safety Tips

I hope you all are doing well and staying safe this period. As we all know, many organizations have shifted to working from home for the foreseeable future as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

 

Unfortunately, cyber criminals have been taking advantage of the situation to exploit organizations and individuals for their own personal gains. It is important for us as employees to be more vigilant of potential attacks as we adjust to our new reality of telecommuting.

Safety Tips While Working from Home

 

Beware of Phishing Emails

Cyber criminals are now sending phishing emails claiming to be from the NCDC and instructing people to download an attached Microsoft Office document. Avoid clicking on unknown links or downloading email attachments from untrusted sources.

Avoid spreading fake news and visiting malicious websites

Always verify information from a legitimate & trusted source before circulating. Recently, various broadcast messages have been circulating on social media platforms, stating that the Federal Government would be giving each Nigerian citizen a sum of N8500 per week to stay at home to help control the spread of COVID19.

 

Example of a Phishing Email/Site

This above is clearly a phishing website aimed at stealing user's personal information. And no, the government is not going to give you N8,500, sorry.

 

Avoid Downloading Unknown Applications

There are several apps camouflaging as COVID19 Trackers. However, when users download these applications, a ransomware program known as “CovidLock”, encrypts the user's device and requests for a certain amount of money, before the device can be accessed again by the user.

Ensure You Have An Antivirus Installed

Always make sure your computer is regularly updated and has an antivirus software installed. So long as you use the internet, viruses would definitely get into your computer and this is where antivirus solutions excel. For those without an antivirus software, it is important for you to understand that you are putting your system and the company's network at risk by connecting to our network with an unprotected computer. If you need to have one setup for you, The IT Support unit or myself would be more than willing to help you.

Remember, security is not complete without you. The more you educate yourself, the safer you become.

Thank you & have a wonderful day ahead.
Warm regards,