As the whole world is struggling to fight against coronavirus, Hackers may use this crisis to gain access and win over the most sensitive and personal information. Especially for those who are under WFH (Work From Home) status, are more at risk as they don’t have access to their company's cyber security and firewalls to protect.

Recently, the Delhi Police shared an advisory, informing people how cybercriminals are exploiting COVID-19 fear.

Aneesh Roy, DCP, Cybercrime, Delhi Police says, "We have issued the advisory as a precaution. If people are aware and just keep some basic security steps in mind like keeping a strong password, an updated anti-virus system, sharing sensitive information only after verifying credentials, etc, they'll be safe."

Here are some tips by Aneesh Roy, take a look

Beware of too-good-to-be-true data pack offers:

If you are working from home, you are bound to use more data. Hackers have found a way to exploit it. The number of spam text and WhatsApp messages with data pack offers has increased. These messages often have shortened URL. Any shortened URL should be seen with suspicion.

Use popular, trusted apps:

If you have to use a video calling or conference calling app for meeting, ensure you are using a safe app. It is important to check the credentials of the app. Go for trusted options used by renowned companies.

Be cautious while sharing your screen:

You should be cautious of impersonators, using emails of colleagues to gain access to your screen. Cross check the info and details of the person, you are approving screen sharing. Switch on the ‘do not disturb’ option if it’s Mac and ‘no notifications’ option if it is Windows to maintain privacy. Close all tabs with personal info.

Use a strong password and updated anti-virus

There are a few basic steps which people often ignore. If they are accessing corporate data from laptops and PCs, they should ensure that their system has updated anti-virus and a strong password.

Watch out for scams when looking for corona-related info:

You may have noticed a surge in emails related to COVID-19 in your inbox. These emails could have malicious attachments in the form of PDF files. DO NOT open the link of emails, unless from a trusted website. Hackers have cashed in on the surge in search regarding COVID-19 and created fake information domains. The Delhi Police has shared a list of such domains.

What to do if you’re a victim of cyber fraud:

1. Report the crime at cybercrime.gov.in. The complaint is then transferred to your district police. They will get in touch with you, or you can contact them.

2. If your bank account or your card has been compromised, block the account first.

Stay safe online, while working from home!