An American cybersecurity company says criminal groups are exploiting fears over the new coronavirus to try to attack the global shipping industry. Proofpoint says criminals have been exploiting a vulnerability in Word to spread AZORult and other malware since at least 2016, including for downloading ransomware that can lock victims out of their systems unless they pay. However, there is currently no evidence that ransomware has been used in this latest scam. Proofpoint advises workers exercise caution when presented with coronavirus-themed email messages and attachments, as well as links and websites that could be used by criminals as lures. "All emails with Coronavirus-themes and attachments should be treated with caution, even if they don't appear to be directly health related."

Source: CBC News February 10, 2020 19:13 UTC