DES MOINES, Iowa — As Iowans take precautionary steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 coronavirus, the Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds them it is also important to protect their cyber health and security by being mindful of related scams.
In a statement released Sunday, the DPS said cybercriminals are quick to exploit concerns surrounding public health by luring individuals into sharing sensitive information.
Cybercriminals attempting to access personal information may distribute malicious e-mail attachments or provide links to fake or fraudulent websites featuring protective products and services, or they might try soliciting donations to fraudulent charities or causes.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Iowa DPS warn citizens to exercise caution should they receive any email with a COVID-19-related subject line, attachment or hyperlink, and they should be wary of social media pleas, texts or phone calls related to COVID-19.
State and federal public safety officials are encouraging the public to protect themselves from malicious online activity by…
