Scam Of The Week: Orlando Nightclub Phishing Attacks

Just when you think they cannot sink any lower, criminal internet scum is now exploiting the tragedy in Orlando. Unfortunately, from this spot I have been warning about these lowlifes before when earlier similar incidents like this happened. You need to alert your employees, friends and family... again.

Phishers are now sending a raft of scams your way, varying from blood drives to pleas for charitable contributions for victims and their families. Another attack vector are messages that promise exclusive or inside information or -- even worse-- smartphone videos shot at the scene.

ABC Action News interviewed me for this story:

Unfortunately, this type of scam is the worst kind of phishbait, and it is a very good idea to inoculate people before they get suckered into falling for a scam like this. I suggest you send the following short alert to as many people as you can.

[ALERT] "Lowlife internet scum is trying to benefit from the Orlando shootings. They are now sending out phishing campaigns that try to trick you into clicking on a variety of links about blood drives, charitable donations, "inside" information or "exclusive" videos. Don't let them shock you into clicking on anything, or open possibly dangerous attachments you did not ask for!

Anything you receive about the Orlando shootings, be very suspicious. With this topic, think three times before you click. It is very possible that it is a scam, even though it might look legit or was forwarded to you by a friend -- be especially careful when it seems to come from someone you know through email, a text or social media postings because their account may be hacked.

In case you want to donate to charity, go to your usual charity by typing their name in the address bar of your browser and do not click on a link in any email. Remember, these precautions are just as important at the house as in the office, and tell your family."

It is unfortunate that we continue to have to warn against the bad guys on the internet that use these tragedies for their own benefit. For KnowBe4 customers, we have a three new templates with this topic in the Current Events - and I strongly suggest you send one or two this week:

A friend has asked you to donate blood - find your nearest blood drive/blood center
Donations for Families of Orlando Shooting Victims - internal HR style email
New ISIS Video Celebrating Orlando Attacks Turns Up On Dark Web - CNN headline

Now would be a good time to review the 22 social engineering red flags to watch out for, we suggest you print out the PDF and pass it along to coworkers, family and friends:

22 Social Engineering Red Flags