Dear New York Tech Students, Faculty, and Staff: As of March 11, 2022, approximately 79,250,000 cases of COVID-19 and 961,620 cumulative total deaths have been reported in the United States by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) since the start of the pandemic. On this exact date two years ago, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. It is only recently that the surveillance data have consistently revealed that the pandemic is waning. However, during these two years, we have witnessed tremendous morbidity and mortality and endured the most stringent worldwide public health restrictions. As a result of these restrictions, surveillance statistics are improving and we should take a moment to acknowledge that we have all survived one of the most devastating public health crises in recent history. Although science and technology have their limitations, without the effective use of communication via the internet, collaboration among medical scientists, multi-government and corporate support, and—most importantly—significant behavioral changes on a global scale, this disease could have resulted in significantly more sickness and death. Quantifying how many deaths have been prevented within the last two years remains one of the greatest challenges in public health, but it could easily be over 100 million worldwide. Sadly, it has come to my attention that cybercriminals are using the COVID-19 pandemic as a cover to launch various attacks on unsuspecting victims. Here are a few of the methods being used: Registering fake COVID-related government websites: In early January, the government launched a website where people can sign up to receive free COVID-19 test kits. Since the launch, suspected fraudsters have registered more than 600 suspicious domains. Designed to look like the official government site, these domains have very similar URLs, deviating by as little as one wrong letter or a different character. They aim to trick pandemic-weary Americans into handing over personal data to cybercriminals. Please be cautious and verify the URL of any website you visit. It’s always safest to type the URL directly into the address bar instead of clicking on links to get there. Fraudulent contract tracing text messages: Scammers are pretending to represent government agencies through text messages claiming that the recipient has been in direct contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19. The message contains a link to a website that allegedly offers testing kits and asks for some type of personal information to obtain the kits. You should never click on a link in a text message from an unknown sender, regardless of how realistic or official the message may look. If you’re unsure, you should always try to look for information or contact the agency directly through an official website. Fraudulent emails from government agencies: In the last several months, there has been a significant increase in emails sent from purported government agencies with attachments claiming to have information about updated COVID-19 safety protocols, safety tips, or some kind of announcement. When the recipient opens the attachment, malware is deployed on their device, which can then infect the entire network. Be wary of any unsolicited emails and never open an attachment unless you can verify the sender. As a member of the New York Tech community, you are eligible to download and install Sophos Home security software for free to protect your devices at home. To download the software, follow these instructions. According to our Information Technology team, these cyberattacks will likely increase and are not expected to fade away as we emerge from the pandemic. The best defense to keep New York Tech and your own personal information secure is through education and awareness. If you have any questions related to information security, contact infosec@nyit.edu. Nationally, mortality rates are once again forecasted to decrease over the next four weeks, which is the result of earlier decreasing transmission rates. As COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths continue to drop, and the CDC continues to classify our community level as “low,” the schedule of this weekly email will transition to biweekly distribution after Spring Recess. In the meantime, you can always find updates about current campus access policies, vaccination requirements, resources, and more on our website. Finally, please note that: While New York Tech no longer mandates masks to be worn indoors on campus, those with ongoing concerns about COVID-19 transmission are encouraged to wear N-95 masks to ensure the protection of themselves and others. N-95 masks can be obtained on campus by emailing Brian Kelleher at bkellehe@nyit.edu. We continue to maintain stringent levels of disinfection in our campus buildings and ensure that hand sanitizer is available throughout campus. You can expect to hear more about these ongoing efforts in a separate email. It is important to remember the lessons learned from the pandemic. More frequent handwashing, remaining at home and avoiding large crowds when ill, testing for COVID-19, and isolating as appropriate are all prudent actions that we should incorporate into our daily lives to prevent the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and other communicable microbes. Even though current trends are positive, those who may still feel anxious or uneasy should reach out to Counseling and Wellness Services at our campuses in Long Island (516.686.7683) or New York City (212.261.1773) to talk or make a virtual appointment. Our medical students can reach out to NYITCOM’s Counseling and Wellness in Long Island (516.686.7636) or Arkansas (870.680.8839). Sincerely, Brian L. Harper, M.D., M.P.H. Chief Medical Officer, NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine Copyright © 2022 New York Institute of Technology