Cyber Crime
Top 10 Daily Cybercrime Brief by FCRF [22.12.2024]: 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 Crime Unit Recovers Rs 5.25 Lakh for Fraud Victim
Hyderabad Cyber Crime Unit helped a businessman recover Rs 5.25 lakh of Rs 7.25 lakh lost to fake stock trading schemes under the guise of ‘Goldman Sachs.’ Led by Inspector S. Naresh, officials traced and froze fraudulent funds, ensuring partial recovery.
2. Citizens Lose Rs 64 Lakh in Multiple Cyber Fraud Cases
Five cyber fraud cases in Pune saw victims lose Rs 64 lakh. Incidents included fake share trading, SIM fraud threats, task fraud, job scams, and impersonation of police investigators. Complaints were filed with Warje, Lonikand, and Hadapsar police, but no arrests have been made so far.
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3. Digital Warriors to Combat Fake News at Maha Kumbh 2025
Uttar Pradesh launched a campaign led by students and influencers to fight fake news and raise cybercrime awareness during Maha Kumbh 2025. Directed by DGP Prashant Kumar, the initiative aims to enhance digital vigilance and highlight police efforts statewide.
4. Malerkotla Police Educate Seniors on Cyber Fraud Risks
Malerkotla police organized workshops to inform senior citizens about cyber fraud and their rights. Events at local schools included advice on avoiding scams and saving emergency contacts. DSP Rajan Sharma emphasized the importance of security plans and vigilance against telephonic and online frauds.
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5. Two Arrested for Phishing Scam Impersonating Delhi Jal Board
Two men were arrested for a phishing scam where they posed as Delhi Jal Board officials, threatening water disconnection to steal banking credentials. Police recovered Rs 4.6 lakh linked to the scam, which involved sending fake APK links to victims via WhatsApp.
INTERNATIONAL
6. Romanian Hacker Sentenced to 20 Years for NetWalker Ransomware Attacks
Daniel Christian Hulea, 30, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for his role in NetWalker ransomware attacks, extorting $21.5M, including targeting healthcare during COVID-19. Arrested in Romania and extradited to the U.S., Hulea must forfeit $21.5M, restitution, and assets tied to the crimes.
7. Hackney Council Faces Six-Figure Cyberattack Recovery Costs
Hackney Council spent £757,000 on IT consultants and agency staff after a 2020 ransomware attack exposed personal data. The ICO criticized the council for security lapses, while fallout exacerbated financial strain. A new housing system was announced to address ongoing tech challenges.
8. Shoppers Warned of £80M Fraud Risk Over Holidays
Experts predict £80 million in losses to fraud and cybercrime during Christmas and New Year, with over 1,000 daily victims. Scammers exploit social media and online platforms as shoppers rush for deals, prompting cybersecurity organizations to urge vigilance.
9. Lazarus Group Targets Nuclear Engineers with CookiePlus Malware
North Korea-linked Lazarus Group used CookiePlus malware in a January 2024 campaign targeting nuclear engineers. Disguised job offers lured victims into downloading malicious tools, continuing their long-running Operation Dream Job, which has targeted global sectors since 2020.
10. LockBit Developer Charged for Global Ransomware Damages
Rostislav Panev, dual Russian-Israeli national, was charged for developing LockBit ransomware, causing billions in damages globally. Arrested in Israel, Panev allegedly earned $230,000 from the operation. LockBit targeted over 2,500 entities, netting $500M before its infrastructure was seized in February 2024.
