Cyber Crime
Top 10 Daily Cybercrime Brief by FCRF [30.11.2024]: 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. Mangaluru Resident Duped of Rs 1.31 Lakh by Malicious APK File
A Mangaluru resident lost Rs 1.31 lakh after downloading a malicious APK file, triggered by a call from an unidentified number. This highlights rising digital scams, with cyber fraud losses in India totaling Rs 11,333 crore in 2024. Experts advise caution with unknown files and prompt reporting of suspicious activities.
2. ED Discovers 15,000 Mule Accounts in Major Cybercrime Network Crackdown
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is investigating a massive money laundering operation tied to cybercrimes like phishing and fake call centers. Using 15,000 mule accounts and cryptocurrency platform Pyypl, funds were laundered via digital payments. Raids uncovered incriminating evidence, with suspects fleeing after attacking an ED officer in Delhi.
3. Kanpur Couple Recovers Rs 11 Lakh After Falling Victim to Cyber Fraud
A Kanpur couple lost Rs 11 lakh in a well-planned online scam involving compromised bank details and unauthorized OTPs. Quick action, including alerting ICICI Bank, contacting the cybercrime helpline 1930, and involving e-commerce platforms, helped block transactions and trace orders.
4. Hyderabad: Cyber Fraudsters Cheat Private Employee of Rs 2.9 Lakh by Impersonating Mumbai Police
A 32-year-old private employee lost Rs 2.9 lakh to cyber fraudsters posing as Mumbai Cybercrime Branch officials. Using fake documents, arrest threats, and a “truth test” pretext, the fraudsters coerced the victim into transferring funds. Despite assurances, no refund was made. Cybercrime police have launched an investigation.
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5. Gujarat Man Arrested in Rs 60 Lakh Cyber Fraud Case
Fazilka police, Gujarat cracked a Rs 60 lakh fraud involving online trading. Victim was duped by a person and accomplices posing as brokers. Investigations revealed fake accounts and Rs 3 crore in transactions. Police recovered Rs 15.5 lakh, froze Rs 5.5 lakh, and arrested suspects, now in custody.
INTERNATIONAL
6. Italy-Led Police Operation Dismantles Major Illegal Streaming Network
An international operation dismantled a massive illegal streaming network serving 22 million users and causing €10 billion in annual damages. Italian authorities seized 2,500 channels, servers in Romania and Hong Kong, cryptocurrencies worth €1.6 million, and €40,000 in cash. Suspects face charges for piracy, fraud, and cybercrimes.
7. DOJ Charges Five Alleged Members of Cybercrime Gang ‘Scattered Spider’
The U.S. DOJ charged five members of the Scattered Spider cybercrime gang for phishing schemes targeting individuals and organizations, stealing credentials and cryptocurrency. Active between 2021 and 2023, the gang caused $11 million in damages. Key suspects face up to 20 years in prison, with some already in custody.
8. Phishing-as-a-Service “Rockstar 2FA” Targets Microsoft 365 with AiTM Attacks
Cybersecurity experts warn of “Rockstar 2FA,” a phishing-as-a-service (PhaaS) toolkit targeting Microsoft 365 users through adversary-in-the-middle (AiTM) attacks. Offering 2FA bypass and phishing customization, it exploits trusted platforms like Google Docs and OneDrive to steal credentials and session cookies, leaving even multi-factor authentication users vulnerable.
9. Fake Betting Apps Use AI-Generated Voices to Steal Sensitive Data
Group-IB reports a surge in fake betting app scams using AI-generated voices and fake reviews to lure victims across regions like Egypt, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. Over 1,377 malicious sites and 500 ads have been identified, leading to significant financial losses, data theft, and compromised devices.
10. Godot Engine Exploited to Distribute Malware on Windows, macOS, and Linux
Check Point Research uncovered “GodLoader,” malware exploiting the Godot game engine to target macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android. Distributed via GitHub, it embeds malicious code in game assets to bypass antivirus detection. Affecting over 17,000 systems, experts urge users to avoid cracked software and download from trusted sources.
