Cyber Crime
Top 10 Daily Cybercrime Brief by FCRF [27.11.2024]: 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. IIT Bombay Student Duped of Rs 7 Lakh in Sophisticated ‘Digital Arrest’ Scam
An IIT Bombay student lost Rs 7.29 lakh to fraudsters impersonating TRAI officials. The scammers, under the pretext of preventing legal action, intimidated him into transferring funds. Upon realizing the fraud, the victim lodged a police complaint.
2. Hyderabad Cyber Crime Unit Recovers Rs 44 Lakh for Online Fraud Victims
The Hyderabad cybercrime police facilitated the recovery of Rs 44.84 lakh for three victims of financial fraud. Cases included stock trading scams, digital extortion, and internet banking fraud. Prompt action and account freezing helped refund the stolen funds.
3. Cyber Police Refund Rs 3.59 Lakh to Three Defrauded Individuals
The Hyderabad cybercrime team helped refund Rs 3.59 lakh to three victims of online scams. These included fraudulent credit card schemes and malware-based attacks. Quick interventions prevented further losses, with merchants refunding stolen amounts.
4. Mule Account Woes: Banks’ ‘No-Funds’ Excuse Shatters Cyber Fraud Victims’ Hopes in Bengaluru
A Bengaluru housewife defrauded of Rs 38,000 managed to freeze the scammer’s account, but Axis Bank later revealed no funds were available. With cybercrimes rising, victims struggle as banks cite multiple claims and depleted accounts, leaving little hope for recovery.
5. Inside the Rs 4 Crore ‘Digital Arrest’ Fraud Unveiled in Mumbai
A 77-year-old Mumbai woman lost Rs 3.8 crore after scammers impersonating law enforcement tricked her into transferring funds over a month-long period. The cybercriminals staged a fake money laundering investigation, exploiting her trust and compliance through persistent threats.
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INTERNATIONAL
6. ISKCON’s Spiritual Media Platforms Targeted by Bangladeshi Hackers After Priest’s Arrest
ISKCON Bangladesh’s Facebook page and related platforms were hacked by a group called Cyber Defender Bangladesh. Legal actions and recovery efforts are underway, with Hindu cyber experts assisting. ISKCON also condemned the arrest of Hindu priest Chinmoy Krishna Das, urging his release and India’s intervention.
7. Italy Introduces Robust Strategies to Tackle Cybercrime Threats
Italy plans new anti-cybercrime laws after major hacks targeting critical infrastructure. The legislation enhances prosecutorial powers for extortion-linked breaches, focusing on systems vital to public safety. Hundreds are under investigation, including ties to prominent figures, reflecting a significant government crackdown.
8. Authorities Dismantle Cybercrime Marketplace, Seizing Hidden Cryptocurrency Stash
The U.S. seized Popeyetools, a cybercrime marketplace, and charged three administrators for aiding fraud and ransomware. Active since 2016, the platform made $1.7M via crypto, selling stolen personal and financial data. Convictions could lead to 10-year sentences, highlighting international anti-cybercrime cooperation.
9. Chinese Hackers Deploy GHOSTSPIDER Malware to Breach Telecoms in Over 12 Nations
Earth Estries, a China-linked hacking group, used advanced malware, including GHOSTSPIDER, to target over 20 global entities, particularly Southeast Asian telecoms. Exploiting security flaws, the group conducts stealthy cyber espionage with a sophisticated operational structure, underscoring China’s evolving cyber capabilities.
10. Thai Authorities Apprehend Chinese Hackers Behind SMS Blaster Fraud Network
Thai police arrested cybercrime gangs for SMS blaster attacks using fake cell towers, sending mass fraudulent messages. Investigations revealed millions of scam calls and illegal telecom operations, leading to arrests of Thai and foreign suspects, with Interpol assisting in tracking others.
