Cyber scammers using Hurricane Florence as a hook for malicious emails

Cybercriminals did not even wait for Hurricane Florence to pull out of the Carolinas before attempting to take advantage of not only the storm, but also the good intentions of others looking to help those in need.

The National Cybersecurity & Communications Integration Center (NCCIC) has issued a warning for malicious cyber activity centered on Hurricane Florence that involves fraudulent emails that either contain links or attachments to steer people to malicious websites. There have also been cases of scams being pushed through social media, unsolicited texts and even door-to-door solicitations.

“Users should exercise caution in handling any email with a subject line, attachments, or hyperlinks related to the hurricane, even if it appears to originate from a trusted source,” the NCCIC said.

Before clicking or donating money, the NCCIC recommends the charity be verified using the Better Business Bureau National Charity Index.