The Coronavirus vaccine is the subject of a new hacker attack

An effective hacker attack can, in many cases, deceive an inexperienced user by exploiting a topical issue. As noted by the researchers of Check Point Software Technologiesthe latest trend in hacker attacks concerns the Coronavirus vaccine, one of the most topical issues in this period.

Vaccine themed hacker attack

Check Point Software Technologies researchers recorded a remarkable increase in Coronavirus-themed hacker attacks in the latter period. Specifically, such attacks try to exploit the vaccine theme to trick users into downloading malicious files (.exe, .xls and .doc) attached to specific e-mails.

Check Point has identified two types of attacks on this issue by providing as many examples of e-mails designed to deceive users. Emails with subjects like the ones below could actually be a sophisticated hacker attack.

• Subject: Urgent information letter: New Covid-19 vaccines approved
• Summary: UK coronavirus vaccine efforts proceed

Coronavirus-themed attacks fall in July

According to the Check Point researchers, one was registered during the month of July decrease of more than 50%, compared to the weekly average of June, of Coronavirus-themed hacker attacks. In essence, the strategies to deceive users have evolved and are becoming more and more refined, focusing on a topical issue such as the vaccine.

According to David Gubiani, Regional Director Security Engineering Southern Europe, “most campaigns involve the inbox, which is worrying. Over 80% of attacks against organizations start with a malicious email ”. To protect yourself from these attacks it is necessary to pay the utmost attention, in particular to the use of the word “vaccine”.