NTT Ltd. Monthly Threat Report explains rise in cyber-attacks in the wake of COVID-19

As its report finds hackers seek to exploit remote working vulnerabilities and pandemic panic, NTT Ltd. will offer Incident Response services at no cost to help hospitals treating COVID-19 patients

MEDIA ALERT – London – 7 April 2020 – World-leading global technology services provider NTT Ltd. releases its Monthly Threat Report, which reveals there has been a significant increase in cyberattacks in the wake of COVID-19, as hackers seek to exploit Coronavirus-related panic, along with vulnerabilities created by an increase in remote working.

Recent attacks have included information-stealing malware built into a fake World Health Organization (WHO) information app, while phishing emails have offered in-demand items including face masks, hand sanitizer and Coronavirus tests. High-profile attacks have been launched against hospitals, the World Health Organization and a COVID-19 test center.

Hospitals in particular have experienced a wave of threats, at the exact time that their resources are focused on saving lives and handling an overflow of patients. Ransomware, encrypting applications and files until a ransom is paid, has been the main threat, along with attempts to steal financial information and patient medical records.

In response to the rise in attacks launched by cyber criminals seeking to exploit panic caused by the pandemic, NTT Ltd. will provide qualifying hospitals battling the Coronavirus with cybersecurity Incident Response support at no cost, if an incident occurs.

Beginning on World Health Day, Tuesday 7 April, for 60 days hospitals across the UK and Ireland, Europe, North America, Australia and Singapore will be able to use its cybersecurity Incident Response services. Following an assessment, the service will include remote deployment of NTT’s Incident Response tools and then focus on containment and remediation of the attack.

Matt Gyde, President and CEO, Security Division at NTT Ltd., says: “Unfortunately malicious actors are launching cyberattacks that attempt to exploit panic, security vulnerabilities, and the fact that our hospitals are already under huge pressure. Hospitals across the globe need help to be able to respond to threats quickly as they carry out their hugely important work in the fight against Coronavirus.”

About NTT Ltd:

NTT Ltd. is a leading global technology services company. We partner with organizations around the world to shape and achieve outcomes through intelligent technology solutions. For us, intelligent means data driven, connected, digital and secure. As a global ICT provider, we employ more than 40,000 people in a diverse and dynamic workplace that spans 57 countries, trading in 73 countries and delivering services in over 200 countries and regions. Together we enable the connected future. Visit us at hello.global.ntt