Just when you think they couldn’t sink any lower, internet based criminals are now exploiting the tragedy in Orlando. Unfortunately, once again we need to warn people about these lowlifes just like we’ve done when earlier, similar incidents like this happened.
Phishers are now sending a raft of scams varying from blood drives to pleas for charitable contributions for victims and their families. Additional attack vectors are messages that promise exclusive or inside information or — even worse– smartphone videos shot at the scene. Unfortunately, this type of scam is the worst kind of phish-bait we’ve seen lately.
These criminals are now sending out phishing campaigns that try to trick you into clicking on a variety of links about blood drives, charitable donations, “inside” information or “exclusive” videos. Don’t let them shock you into clicking on anything, or open possibly dangerous attachments you did not ask for!
With anything you receive about the Orlando shootings, be very, very suspicious – think three times before you click. It’s very possible that it is a scam, even though it might look legitimate or was forwarded to you by a friend — be especially careful when it seems to come from someone you know through email, a text or social media postings because their account may have been hacked.
If you want to donate to help those affected by this tragedy, go to your usual charity by typing their name in the address bar of your browser and do not click on a link in any email. Remember, taking these precautions is just as important at home as in the office, and don’t forget to warn your family members. It’s unfortunate that we continue to have to warn against the bad guys on the internet that try to leverage these tragedies for their own benefit.
Below are just a few of the email subject lines you should be extremely cautious about when opening:
- A friend has asked you to donate blood – find your nearest blood drive/blood center.
- Donations for Families of Orlando Shooting Victims.
- New ISIS Video Celebrating Orlando Attacks Turns Up On Dark Web – CNN headline
