Cyber Crime
Top 10 Daily Cybercrime Brief by FCRF [02.08.2024]: Click here to Know More
Important global cybercrime news has been curated by Futurecrime Researchers to keep you informed about various types of digital fraud occurring worldwide and to provide insights into the best mitigation strategies. Read below to learn more in detail.
1. Cyber Fraud: Kerala Police Arrest Two Individuals from Odisha
The Kolkata Police Cyber Cell arrested two men from Odisha for threatening Kolkata traders with fake CBI cases and extorting money. Aditya Shaw and Deepankar Mohanty were nabbed in Balasore and brought to Kolkata. This marks the fourth arrest in a month related to this online extortion scheme.
2. Cuddalore Police Issue Warning on ‘SBI Reward Points’ Scam
The Cuddalore district police issued an advisory on the ‘SBI Reward Points Scam,’ where hackers use compromised social media accounts to send fake messages about SBI rewards. Victims are tricked into downloading malware via an APK file, which steals sensitive information. The public is advised to avoid suspicious links and verify authenticity.
3. Cybercriminal Arrested for Defrauding Woman of Rs 39 Lakh
The CID arrested Sameer Ansari for defrauding a Ranchi resident of Rs 39.31 lakh. He and his Thailand-based accomplice used a fake trading app to scam victims via a WhatsApp group. Ansari was caught at Dhanbad railway station. The fraudulent funds were transferred to a PNB account linked to multiple complaints.
4. Cyber Crime Police File Case Over False Campaign Against Chief Minister’s Facebook Post
A case has been registered against individuals spreading false posts on social media against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s appeal for Wayanad landslide victims. The Wayanad Cyber Crime police are taking strict action. Meanwhile, rescue operations continue for 240 missing people, with 1592 rescued in the past two days.
ALSO READ: Karnataka Cyber Security Policy 2024 Released: Rs 103 Crores Allocated For Policy Implementation
5. Kolkata: Police Teach Cyber Risks in Schools, Learn ‘Hacking Techniques’ from Teens
Police and counsellors in Kolkata schools discovered students engaging in hacking and other cyber exploits, viewing them as achievements rather than crimes. Workshops revealed a lack of understanding between ethical hacking and illegal activities. Officers used real-life examples to teach cyber hygiene and the risks of constant online connectivity.
INTERNATIONAL
6. Advanced Ransomware Variants Strengthen Cybercrime Groups
Ransomware groups often use leaked or purchased variants rather than creating their own. Key Group and SEXi demonstrate this approach, showing low professionalism but effectiveness through affiliate schemes or targeted attacks. Despite easy access to advanced ransomware, exploiting organizations remains complex, posing significant threats to individuals and companies.
7. NHS Health Board Hackers Likely to Face Conviction: Police
Hackers from INC Ransom attacked NHS Dumfries and Galloway, stealing 3 TB of data and demanding ransom. police doubt they’ll face court but aim to dismantle their network. The attack involved phishing and highlighted data vulnerability. Multi-agency efforts, including international operations, continue to combat such cybercrimes.
ALSO READ: UP Police Bust Interstate Cyber Gang Operating Bogus Franchise Websites
8. Singapore Cybercrime Trends: Fewer Phishing Emails but Increased Use of AI-Enhanced Language
The Singapore Cyber Landscape 2023 report highlights a 52% drop in phishing attempts but an increase in AI-enhanced phishing email sophistication. AI-generated content in phishing emails makes them more convincing, posing a greater threat. Other cybercrime trends include stable ransomware incidents, reduced website defacements and malware infections.
9. France Reports 68 Cyberattacks Linked to Paris Olympics
France foiled 68 cyberattacks, including two targeting Paris Olympic sites. ANSSI trained entities to protect against such attacks, anticipating increased attempts during the Games. The Olympics opened with tight security, including AI measures and no-fly zones. Paris 2024 expects eight to ten times more cyberattacks than Tokyo 2020.
10. Russian Hackers’ Release Seen as First U.S. Prisoner Swap for International Cybercriminals
In a recent U.S.-Russia prisoner swap, two seasoned Russian cybercriminals, Vladislav Klyushin and Roman Seleznev, were released. Their release underscores the U.S.’s high price for freeing political prisoners, highlighting challenges in prosecuting international cybercrime due to legal and geopolitical complexities.