COVID-19 Pandemic Fuels Rise in Cybercrime: Egypt Case Study

Abstract

Since the declaration of COVID-19 as a pandemic by the World Health Organization, economies and daily life in many countries have been significantly affected. To mitigate the spread of the virus, various measures such as travel restrictions, lockdowns, and stay-at-home orders have been implemented worldwide. Consequently, there has been an increased reliance on internet-based methods to ensure public safety and continue essential activities. However, this increased online presence has also provided cybercriminals with opportunities to engage in malicious activities, exploiting the pandemic for financial gain. This study aims to provide a brief review of the cyber activities associated with the COVID-19 outbreak and investigate the extent of cybercrime during this period. A cross-sectional survey was conducted online, involving 400 internet users, to assess the occurrence of cybercrime during the pandemic. The findings indicate that victims of cybercrime encompass not only individuals who use online directories but also those engaging in routine internet searches and email communications. The study reveals that cybercrime has a detrimental impact on users' online experiences, potentially leading them to limit their online activities and resort to offline alternatives. The objective of this research is to comprehensively study cyber-attacks, analyzing the concept and variations of cyber-attacks before and during the COVID-19 pandemic era, in order to identify patterns, trends, and the overall impact of cybercrime on individuals.