Ten Deadly Cyber Security Threats Amid COVID-19 Pandemic
Navid Ali Khan, Sarfraz Nawaz Brohi, Noor Zaman
Abstract
World Health Organization declared COVID-19 as a pandemic after the breakout in the city of Wuhan, China. The disease has negatively affected the global economy and daily life. Most of the countries around the world have imposed travel restrictions, locked down, and social distancing measures. In the current situation, Information and Communications Technology is playing a significant role in connecting people. Majority of the education organizations have adopted online platforms, students and staff are working from home. Besides, these businesses, e-healthcare systems, food deliveries, and online grocery shopping have witnessed a very high demand. Malicious attackers have considered COVID-19 as an opportunity to launch attacks for financial gains and to promote their evil intents. Healthcare systems are being attacked with ransomware and resources such as patient’s records confidentiality, and integrity is being compromised. People are falling prey to phishing attacks through COVID-19 related content. In this research, we have identified the top ten cybersecurity threats that had and could take place during the pandemic. We have also discussed the privacy concerns raised amid COVID-19.