Cyber Crime
Top 10 Daily Cybercrime Brief by FCRF [25.11.2024]: 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. Two Victims Targeted in Cybercrime Incident in Haryana
Two residents of Panchkula, Haryana lost around Rs 2 lakh in cyber scams. A lawyer, was duped of Rs 1.28 lakh by fraudsters posing as cryptocurrency traders. In another case, a chartered accountant, lost Rs 84,610 to a fake AXIS Bank credit card reward scam involving a fraudulent website.
2. Five Arrested for Defrauding Minister’s Accountant of Rs 2 Crore in Online Scam in Dehradun
Five cybercriminals defrauded of Rs 2.08 crore from a Minister’s accountant by posing as the minister’s son via WhatsApp. Arrested from Bareilly and Dehradun, the gang operated under foreign masterminds, using Telegram channels, fake accounts, and OTP apps. Police froze Rs 12 lakh and continue efforts to track others involved.
3. Noida Woman Scammed of Rs 34 Lakh Through Fake ED Notices and Digital Arrest Hoax
A Noida woman lost Rs 34 lakh in a cyber fraud involving fake ED notices and a fabricated “digital arrest.” Scammers alleged a parcel in her name contained illegal items, forcing her to transfer money. Police are investigating, highlighting growing “digital arrest” scams exploiting fear. PM Modi urged vigilance against such frauds.
4. Bank Employee Falls Victim to Rs 18 Lakh Cyber Fraud
A Ludhiana bank employee lost Rs 18 lakh in a cyber fraud after a scammer posing as a stock market agent promised high returns. The victim’s father transferred Rs 18 lakh to the suspect, who later disappeared. Police are investigating account details and call records, urging caution with investment schemes.
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5. 48-Year-Old Noida Woman Duped of Rs 34 Lakh in Online Fraud Scheme
A 48-year-old Noida woman lost Rs 34 lakh to fraudsters after being threatened with a fabricated “digital arrest.” Posing as narcotics officials, the scammers forced her to transfer Rs 20 lakh from a loan and Rs 14 lakh in savings. Police have recovered Rs 10 lakh and are investigating the case further.
INTERNATIONAL
6. Russian Spies Suspected of Moving Nearby to Infiltrate Networks
Threat actors continue to innovate cyberattack methods, including the “nearest neighbor attack” by APT28, exploiting unsecured Wi-Fi and bypassing MFA. Critical vulnerabilities in Cisco and Progress Software highlight risks, while Microsoft shut down an Egypt-based phishing operation. Ransomware Helldown expanded to Linux and VMware, and Jupyter Notebooks were exploited for illegal UEFA match streaming.
7. UK Minister Warns of Putin’s Cyber Attacks Aimed at Undermining Ukraine Support
UK Minister Pat McFadden warns that Russia is launching regular cyberattacks on the UK to weaken support for Ukraine. Describing it as a “hidden war,” he states Russia targets media, telecoms, and infrastructure. McFadden emphasizes the UK’s commitment to countering these attacks and standing firm with Ukraine against Russian aggression.
8. Hacktivists Pose Persistent Threat Amid 9% Rise in Cyber Extortion Cases
Hacktivists a ‘persistent threat’ as reports of cyber extortion rise by 9 per cent. Ransomware attacks and foreign espionage are the top cyber threats for government departments and agencies, with hackers imposing a hefty cost on Australian small businesses.
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9. Over Half of Cyberattacks in Africa Target Governments and Finance, Report Reveals
Cyberattacks in Africa target government (29%) and financial institutions (22%) for espionage and financial gain, with malware and ransomware as key tools. South Africa and Egypt face the most attacks. Experts recommend risk analysis, updating systems, training staff, and fostering government-private partnerships to enhance cybersecurity and combat rising threats.
10. Andrew Tate’s University Data Breach Exposes 1 Million User Records and Chats
Hackers breached Andrew Tate’s online university, exposing over 1 million user records, including usernames, emails, and chat messages. Exploiting security flaws, they spammed chats with pro-LGBTQ+ emojis and deleted attachments. This follows an earlier data breach, raising concerns about the platform’s inadequate security and commitment to protecting user information.
