Watch Out for Omicron Variant Scams

Omicron, a new variant of the COVID-19 virus, is spreading quickly across the globe. Unfortunately, this news is only made worse by cybercriminals who are creating Omicron-themed phishing scams.

In a recent phishing email, cybercriminals impersonate the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS). The email appears to be an offer for a new COVID-19 Omicron PCR test. If you click the link within the email, you’re sent to an NHS look-alike website where you are asked to provide your personal details and payment information. Any info you enter on this fake webpage is delivered straight to the cybercriminals.

Follow these tips to avoid similar phishing attacks:
-    Although the scam is to impersonate the NHS, you may also see hackers from other countries using a similar scam. Watch out for suspicious emails from both local and global health organizations.
-    Never click on a link within an email that you weren’t expecting, even if the email appears to come from an organization you recognize. 
-    Stay informed about the Omicron variant by following local news and other trusted sources.