In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, cybersecurity experts are raising alarms about the increase in digital threats that typically follow natural disasters. Blue Light IT, a Boca Raton-based IT and cybersecurity services provider, has issued warnings to individuals and businesses about the potential for cyber scams and frauds that could exacerbate the challenges faced by those impacted by the hurricane.
Amir Sachs, CEO of Blue Light IT, pointed out the critical need for cybersecurity awareness during such vulnerable times. Historical data from events like Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Harvey show a pattern of cybercriminals exploiting the chaos, with thousands of fraudulent charity websites and phishing attacks emerging in the disasters' wakes.
The firm has identified several key threats, including phishing emails that mimic trusted agencies and fake charity websites designed to fraudulently solicit donations. Businesses are particularly at risk for ransomware attacks, as the disruption caused by natural disasters can leave IT defenses weakened.
To combat these threats, Blue Light IT recommends verifying the legitimacy of charitable organizations before donating, avoiding unsolicited emails with links or attachments, and directly contacting organizations to confirm any offers of aid. These steps are crucial for protecting personal and business assets during the recovery period.
The warnings from Blue Light IT underscore the dual challenges of physical and digital recovery facing communities after Hurricane Milton. By promoting awareness and adherence to cybersecurity best practices, the firm aims to bolster resilience against the opportunistic threats that arise in the wake of natural disasters.
