Reminder Against COVID-19 Pandemic Themed Malicious Websites and Phishing Campaigns

Baruexo SeNrnlL NG PturprNAs OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY GOVERNOR FINANCIAL SU PERV]SION SECTOR MEMORANDUM No. M-2020-009 To ALL BSP-SUPERVISED FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS (BSFlsl Subject Reminder Against COVID-l9 Pandemic Themed Malicious Websites and Phishing Campaigns As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt the global landscape, cyber threat actors are taking advantage of the situation by carrying out criminal activities such as ransomware, phishing, cyber extortion and even launching cyber espionage activities. Recent threat intelligence sources are citing that the threat actors are prop- agating phishing/spear phishing campaigns containing links to COVID-19 or corona- virus-themed malicious websites and/or attachments. These phishing emails initially appear to provide information on how a person can protect himself/herself from the COVID-19. Some even contain legitimate statements/advice from public officials or valid sources but loaded with hidden spyware. All BSFIs are therefore cautioned to stay vigilant against cyber threats that may be taking advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. BSFIs are reminded to employ multi- layered security defense strategies against cyber-attacks and continuously roll-out information security awareness campaigns to their employees, clients and other relevant stakeholders. For information and guidance. G. FONACIER 14 March 2020 A. M;biniSl., rvlalate 10C4 Varila. Phi!ippirres . (632) s7C87701 . www'.bsp gcv.ph . bspr*[email protected];cv.ph