Kaspersky discovered many fraudulent websites that took advantage of the Covid-19 vaccine

Kaspersky experts have discovered a variety of phishing websites popping up around the world. Like spam, recipients are invited to vaccinate, participate in the survey or diagnose Covid-19.

For example some users from the UK have received an email that appears to be coming from the National Health Service of the country. Recipients are offered vaccinations, but before that they need to confirm their desire to be vaccinated by clicking the link.

To schedule a vaccination appointment, users must fill out their personal data, including bank card details, into the form. As a result, they handed over their financial and personal data to the attackers.

Another way to gain access to users' personal data is to fake immunization surveys. Scammers impersonating major pharmaceutical companies that manufacture Covid-19 vaccines send emails inviting recipients to a short survey.

All participants are promised gifts when they participate in the survey. After answering the questions, the victim was directed to a website with a 'giveaway'. To receive the prize, users are required to fill out personal information in a form. In some cases, the attackers also require users to pay a small amount for the transaction.

Finally, Kaspersky experts also found spam providing services to impersonate Chinese manufacturers. These emails provide products for the diagnosis and treatment of the virus, but mainly focus on the sale of the vaccine.

Some of Kasspersky's tips to help users avoid falling victim to scams: Be wary of any unusually generous offers and promotions. Always verify the source of the message. Read only messages coming from trusted sources. Do not click on links in suspicious emails, SMS messages or social media messages. Check the authenticity of the website before visiting. Install a security solution with an always up-to-date database that includes information on the latest forms of phishing and spam.

Kareem Winters

Update 11 May 2021