Russian citizens alerted over emergence of fresh extortion method
In a chilling new development in cybercrime tactics, scammers are targeting Russian internet users with a sophisticated scheme. According to reports by Lenta, these cybercriminals are posing as hired hackers, offering to breach a victim's system and leak personal information.
The scammers' modus operandi is to gather personal details about their targets, often sourced from the dark web. These details are then used to deceive victims and make them believe they have already been hacked. Scammers may contact potential victims through various methods, including emails, phone calls, or messages on social media platforms.
The scammers aim to extort money from victims by offering to not leak their confidential information. They show victims their personal details, including full name, phone number, address, and passport information, to prove their intent. In some cases, scammers may even research the victim's weak points and triggers for blackmail, increasing the likelihood of success.
Scammers prefer targeted attacks because mass schemes are no longer as effective. Practicing digital hygiene is crucial in such a scenario. Users are advised not to leave personal data in public access, delete unused accounts, and use strong, unique passwords for different services.
If victims find themselves in a situation of blackmail, they are encouraged to report to law enforcement. Analysts advise users to stay vigilant and not respond to messages from unknown senders.
This new scam scheme is a worrying development, as scammers have seen a 30% increase in targeted attacks, indicating a shift towards more complex and carefully planned attacks. It's important to be aware that scammers may use personal details obtained from the dark web to deceive victims.
Experts warn that all these data are easily accessible in the dark web and are used by scammers to deceive victims. As the digital world continues to evolve, so too do the tactics of cybercriminals. Staying informed and vigilant is key to protecting oneself in this ever-changing landscape.
