Winter Olympics 2018 could be used by cyber criminals
The Winter Games officially begin in South Korea on Friday and, with millions expected to follow the action online, experts are warning of a heightened risk of cyber attacks.
According to technology firm McAfee, the Winter Olympics will see a huge increase in Games-themed malicious scams which will be used to try and trick web users into handing over personal details.
Through these attacks cybercriminals will be looking to gain to access personal data such passwords and financial information.
It's thought the attackers could use a number of techniques to entice victims into opening weaponised documents.
The cyber firm says that tactics will include email distributed from “spoofed” corporate branded email addresses, emails written in native languages; and the addition of attached documents marked as “protected.”
McAfee is also anticipating an increase in Winter Games cyberattacks using spear phishing techniques and cautions fans to be aware of suspicious links that attempt to lure victims into malicious content.
Here's some top tips to ensure devices and data are protected from these exploits include:
Be cautious. Hover over links to check the URL address looks legitimate, and before logging into an online account, make sure the web address is correct.
Phishers often forge legitimate websites, like online storage accounts, hoping to trick victims into entering login details.
Turn on auto-update. Make sure auto-updates are turned on as a best practice to ensure up-to-date security.
Go straight to the source. In order to avoid phishing attempts and other cyberattacks, always be sure to only go straight to source – meaning, go directly to the site of providers.
Lock down devices with comprehensive security. Always use comprehensive security software to protect devices and information from malware and other threats that might result from a phishing scam.
Use a website reputation tool. This simple browser plug-in can warn users when they visit a potentially malicious site and help steer them back to safety.
McAfee recently uncovered Operation GoldDragon, a malware attack targeting organisations affiliated with the 2018 Winter Games.
Further investigation by McAfee Advanced Threat Research analysts uncovered the consequences for victims of malware implant GoldDragon include attackers’ accessing end-user systems and collecting data stored on the device and connected cloud accounts.
Potential risks include: attacker’s access to customer and employee financial or personal data, Winter Games related details, trade secrets, and more.