Government transitions create perfect storm for cybercriminals

Political transitions and government shake-ups dominate headlines, but there’s a hidden danger most people don’t consider: cybercriminals are watching these events closely, ready to exploit the uncertainty they create.

The Psychology Behind the Attack: Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt

Major political changes naturally create what cybersecurity professionals call “FUD” – Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt. Government employees worry about job security, contractors fear losing contracts, and citizens question what changes mean for services they depend on.

This emotional vulnerability is exactly what cybercriminals look for. When people are anxious and uncertain, they’re more likely to:

• Act quickly without thinking critically
• Trust urgent-sounding communications
• Bypass normal verification processes
• Share sensitive information to “protect” themselves

Inside the Criminal Mindset

Cybersecurity professionals often ask, “If I were a scammer, how would I approach this?” It’s a valuable exercise that reveals how criminals think.

During government transitions, a scammer might:

1. Research government agencies and their contractors through public sources
2. Create fake personas representing officials, HR departments, or “transition teams”
3. Launch multi-channel campaigns using email, text, phone calls, and even physical mail
4. Craft messages that exploit current fears about job security, contract changes, or policy shifts

The key is that these attacks feel timely and relevant – exactly what you’d expect to receive during uncertain times.

Red Flags to Watch For

Whether you work in government, contracting, or any organization that intersects with public sector work, be alert for:

Unusual Communications:

• Contact from government agencies or officials outside normal channels
• Urgent requests claiming to be related to “transition activities” or “security reviews”
• Messages asking you to verify employment, clearance status, or personal information

Suspicious Access Requests:

• Requests for system access from unfamiliar people or organizations
• Pressure to provide access “immediately” due to “transition requirements”
• Bypassing established verification procedures for “emergency” situations

Social Media Targeting:

• Unexpected LinkedIn messages from “government personnel” or journalists
• Requests for interviews or information about your work or organization
• Friend/connection requests from profiles that seem too good to be true

Your Defense Strategy

1. Pause and Verify: When you receive unexpected communications, take time to verify through official channels before responding.
2. Follow Established Procedures: Legitimate requests will follow proper protocols. If someone asks you to bypass normal procedures, that’s a red flag.
3. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance.
4. Report Suspicious Activity: Alert your IT/security team, manager, or relevant authorities about suspicious communications.

Creating a Culture of Security

Organizations should foster environments where employees feel comfortable reporting potential threats without fear of judgment. The goal isn’t to create paranoia, but to maintain healthy skepticism during vulnerable periods.

Remember: cybercriminals count on our human nature – our desire to be helpful, our fear of getting in trouble, and our tendency to act quickly under pressure. By understanding these tactics and staying vigilant during times of change, we can protect ourselves and our organizations from those who would exploit uncertainty for criminal gain.

Stay informed about cybersecurity threats by following trusted sources and keeping your organization’s security team in the loop about suspicious activities.