Cyber Crime
Top 10 Daily Cybercrime Brief by FCRF [30.12.2024]: 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. Ludhiana: Cyber Fraudsters Dupe Doctor of Rs 22,000
A Ludhiana doctor lost Rs 22,699 to cyber fraudsters after being tricked into transferring money via a UPI app. The caller posed as a school official needing wall putty, sending a QR code for “verification.” After transferring the amount, the caller disappeared. Police have registered an FIR and launched an investigation.
2. West Bengal Duo Arrested for Defrauding Army Officer
Nilgiris police arrested two West Bengal men for allegedly defrauding a retired army officer of Rs 45 lakh. The officer was lured by online scammers into investing with promises of high returns. After transferring the money, he realized the fraud and filed a complaint in August. Police are investigating further.
3. Telangana: Over Rs 142 Crore Worth of Drugs Seized
Telangana’s crime rate surged 22.53% in 2024, with 1,69,477 cases reported compared to 1,38,312 in 2023, according to DGP Dr. Jitender. Crimes like murder, rape, and robbery saw a rise. Police seized Rs 142.95 crore worth of drugs, arrested 4,682 individuals, and pledged to make the state drug-free through awareness initiatives.
4. Cyber police returned 79 thousand rupees to the victims’ accounts
In Bhadohi, UP Cyber police recovered Rs 79,000 fraudulently withdrawn from the accounts of five victims. The individuals, from various localities, reported the fraud through the 1930 helpline. Cyber police halted further withdrawals, contacted the banks, and successfully returned the amount to the victims’ accounts.
5. Mumbai: MHADA Employee Loses Rs 3 Lakh in Digital Scam
A MHADA deputy engineer lost Rs 3 lakh to cyber fraudsters posing as TRAI officials. Claiming her Aadhaar was linked to obscene messages and a Rs 300 crore money laundering case, they staged a fake cybercrime investigation via WhatsApp, threatening consequences and coercing her into transferring money. Police are investigating the case.
INTERNATIONAL
6. Interpol supports the UN’s new convention against cybercrime, emphasizing global cooperation to combat online threats.
Interpol welcomed the UN’s adoption of the first legally binding Convention Against Cybercrime, marking a milestone in combating cyber threats. The treaty, shaped by five years of negotiations, emphasizes international cooperation, with Interpol’s law enforcement network playing a key role. Secretary General Urquiza highlighted the urgency of unified global action.
7. Wood County prioritizes cybersecurity in 2025 after paying $1.5M in a ransomware attack.
Wood County faced a ransomware attack on December 9, paying $1.5 million from reserve funds to resolve it. Officials are prioritizing cybersecurity for 2025, implementing new measures and consulting experts to prevent future breaches. Prosecutor Paul Dobson emphasized the growing global threat to public and private systems and the need for vigilance.
8. AFP intensifies efforts to combat cybercriminals in 2024.
The AFP, under operations like Dolos and Aquila, prevented $83 million in cybercrime losses since 2020. Efforts in 2024 included disrupting phishing and scam centers, arresting 250 suspects in the Philippines, and seizing SIM boxes in Australia. With over 100 ongoing cases, the AFP vows relentless action in 2025.
9. Court grants 109 foreigners N1 billion bail in IGP’s gambling fraud case.
A Nigerian court granted N1 billion bail to 109 foreign nationals accused of cybercrimes and operating fraudulent gambling platforms. Arrested in Abuja, they allegedly laundered proceeds and promoted scams online. The court imposed strict bail conditions, including passport surrender and sureties with high-value properties. Trial is set for February 27.
10. South Korea imposes sanctions targeting North Korean hackers for cyberattacks.
South Korea sanctioned 15 North Korean individuals and one entity for cryptocurrency theft used to fund nuclear programs. Hackers stole $1.3 billion, including $308 million from DMM Bitcoin exchange. Targeting North Korea’s 313th General Bureau, the move highlights global collaboration against cybercrime and the growing threat to cybersecurity and peace.