Ransomware Alert: Online Meeting Invitations

TrainMyParent.com
Jul 18
2 min read

An elderly gentleman on a video call — Be cautious of videoconferencing invitations from people you do not know very well.

Scammers are always trying to come up with new ways for you to click on a link, open an attachment, or break into your devices so that they can install malware or ransomware, with or without your knowledge. One of the latest ploys takes advantage of our post-pandemic society by using an invitation for Zoom or another online meeting service to install ransomware, typically targeting job seekers, real estate agents, or company employees. In this ruse, the scammer initiates an important meeting that requires teleconferencing, such as a job interview, a review of a home for sale, or other business meeting. However, that meeting invite is just a link to a malicious website.

These hacker websites might attempt to get your personal information, or typically they install malware or ransomware onto your computer. Once you click that link, you are now pwned* by the hacker.

What to Look For: During the initial discussions, the scammer will suggest a meeting using Zoom or another teleconferencing platform, and they will insist on using their service of choice.

What to Do: First, are you sure that you need a teleconference meeting instead of a simple telephone call? If this could potentially be an important meeting (say, you are indeed looking for a job, selling your home, or think a teleconference call would be ideal in this situation), send them a link from your own teleconferencing system. such as FaceTime (if you own an Apple product), Zoom or Webex (they both offer a free tier). Better yet, what about a face-to-face meeting if it is practical, or just a simple telephone call...you can always claim that your computer's camera is not working.

Scammers are always evolving their techniques to try to steal your money or information. It

is important for us to always stay vigilant and think before we click, especially in situations that are urgent, highly emotional, or those that expect you to perform the action they want, like scheduling an important meeting over Zoom.

Learn how you can protect yourself or your family by enrolling in the Complete Internet Security Basics and Phishing Awareness Course for Parents on TrainMyParent.com

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