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Scottish regulator warns of coronavirus-themed cyber crime after attack against landlord
The Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) has issued a warning over the risk of coronavirus-themed cyber crimes, after it was informed of a “recent and ongoing ransomware attack” against a registered social landlord (RSL).
In a letter sent to all social landlords in Scotland, Ian Brennan, director of regulation at the SHR, wrote: “We have been advised of a recent and ongoing ransomware attack against a registered social landlord.”
“The current pandemic presents new risks and issues, and we are aware that there has been a significant rise in the incidence of criminals using coronavirus for phishing attacks, malware and ransomware to exploit businesses and charities at this time.
“The National Cyber Security Centre has revealed a range of attacks being perpetrated online as cyber criminals seek to exploit COVID-19.”
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The SHR said ‘phishing’ attempts have been seen in several counties, including “bogus emails with [a] link claiming to have important updates, which once clicked on lead to devices being infected”.
It comes after the SHR wrote to Scottish landlords in October last year warning them of the threat of cyber attacks following a number of incidents of fraud against RSLs.
Similar issues have been reported by English housing associations, including Red Kite Community Housing, which was defrauded of almost £1m after being sent a fraudulent email.
Mr Brennan added: “We urge all social landlords to review the guidance material available and take steps to protect themselves from this threat as a priority.”
