Internet Crimes on the Rise During COVID-19 Pandemic


There’s a lot going on in the world right now. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a lot of commotion as millions of people have lost jobs. Businesses are shut down. People are stuck at home. Stores are displaying empty shelves as shoppers hoard toilet paper, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.

People are stressed out as they adapt to a different lifestyle to prevent the spread of this virus. One more thing they must worry about: online crime. Cyber crimes are on the rise as people try to take advantage of people during this vulnerable time.

Many people are lured in by internet crime because it makes them feel anonymous. They are hidden behind a computer screen. Compounding the situation is that millions of Americans are in dire need of money. They are feeling very vulnerable right now and if someone calls and tells them they will receive money, they will probably give over personal information in order to receive these funds they are being promised.

Everyone is a victim. First responders are facing issues with malicious software. Hospitals are facing ransomware attacks. Citizens are dealing with stimulus check scams.

Many scammers are also creating coronavirus-related websites. An analysis of websites associated with COVID-19 showed that close to 100 of them are “actively malicious,” and another 2,000 sites are considered “suspicious.” Cyber criminals are also trying to trick consumers into receiving stimulus checks and other benefits from major stores such as Costco. People are being texted and emailed directly. When they click on these links, their phones and computers become infected with malware.

As people are being forced to stay at home, cyber criminals are using electronics to scam people. Those who work from home or have multiple electronic devices to stay connected and communicate with others during this pandemic are especially at risk. Scammers are looking for ways to exploit vulnerabilities in remote software. They try to gain access to sensitive information, eavesdrop on virtual meetings and conduct other malicious activities.

The popular teleconference software Zoom is especially at risk. Many video conferences using this app have been disrupted by pornographic photos, hate speech and mages and threatening language.

With children no longer attending school due to the coronavirus, most schools have transitioned to distance learning. These children are using technology, remote learning and video conferencing services that are vulnerable to eavesdropping and other attacks. Children need to make sure they protect their identity and personal information.

Contact a Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

Internet crimes are serious matters. Just because you cannot be seen does not mean you cannot be caught. Law enforcement officials have sophisticated technology that can catch criminals.

Internet crimes often cross state lines and can involve the FBI and other national agencies. Get help right away from the Columbia internet crimes lawyers at the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, P.A. He has more than 20 years of criminal defense experience and can help you defend your case. Schedule a free consultation today by calling (410) 774-5987 or filling out the online form.

Resource:

cnn.com/2020/04/03/politics/cyber-criminals-pandemic/index.html

https://www.marylandlawhelp.com/what-makes-internet-crime-so-common/

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