Several Jersey organisations have been affected by an ongoing cyber attack, prompting a warning that Islanders could see an increase in phishing emails over the coming weeks.
The Jersey Cyber Security Centre (JCSC) said attackers have gained access to contact lists belonging to a number of local organisations and are using the information to impersonate those organisations in fraudulent emails.
The emails are designed to trick recipients into sharing sensitive information such as passwords, login credentials and financial details.
JCSC is supporting several organisations affected by the incident and is carrying out its own investigation.
Islanders affected by the attack should expect to hear directly from the organisations involved, while the cyber security centre has issued advice on how people can protect themselves from phishing attempts.
Matt Palmer (pictured), Director of the Jersey and Guernsey Cyber Security Centres, said: “We’ve become aware of an ongoing phishing campaign where criminals have stolen customer contact details from several local organisations and are sending fraudulent emails to Islanders to try and steal personal data. These are often known as ‘phishing’ emails.
“We are supporting affected organisations to respond to the incident and are carrying out our own investigation. We appreciate these organisations coming forward and seeking out support and advice: they have done everything they can to respond to this incident.
“However, we think it is highly likely that Islanders will see an increase in phishing emails in the coming weeks. Islanders should be especially wary of unexpected or suspicious-looking emails and should take basic steps to keep themselves safe.”
JCSC is advising Islanders to check the full sender address and destination of any links, avoid clicking unexpected links or attachments, and contact organisations using independently sourced contact details rather than information contained in a suspicious message. Suspected phishing emails can be reported to [email protected].
Matt Palmer added: “Delete the message and block the sender.”
