Cyber Crime
Top 10 Daily Cybercrime Brief by FCRF [15.08.2024]: 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. Navi Mumbai Police Introduce WhatsApp Helpline to Combat Cyber Scams
Amid growing cyber fraud, Navi Mumbai police launched a WhatsApp channel and helpline to raise awareness about online scams. With losses from cyber crimes surpassing Rs 168 crore in 2024, these initiatives aim to educate citizens and prevent further financial damage.
2. Two Arrested in Mangaluru, 86 SIM Cards Confiscated in Cyber Fraud Crackdown
Mangaluru police arrested two individuals and seized 86 SIM cards intended for illegal sale to cyber fraudsters. The suspects, aged 21 and 19, were found in possession of mobile phones and a car, with the total seized property valued at Rs 5,49,300.
3. Scam Alert: Lucknow Professor Scammed Out of Rs 2.81 Crore After 7-Day ‘Digital Detention’
Dr. Ruchika Tandon, a professor at SGPGIMS Lucknow, was duped out of Rs 2.81 crore over seven days by scammers posing as government officials. The elaborate scheme involved threats of digital custody and accusations of money laundering, coercing her to transfer funds.
4. man in Karnataka’s Udupi District Falls Victim to Rs 1.33 Crore Cyber Scam
A 53-year-old man from Udupi lost Rs 1.33 crore to cyber fraudsters posing as customs and police officers. The scammers convinced him his identity was linked to illegal activities and coerced him into transferring money to resolve the issue.
ALSO READ: FCRF Launches ‘Cyber Safe Uttar Pradesh’ Initiative to Combat Rising Cyber Crime
5. Rajasthan: IIT Professor Tricked Out of Rs 12 Lakh During ‘Digital Custody’ Fraud
An IIT Jodhpur professor lost Rs 12 lakh after being manipulated by cyber criminals posing as police officers. The scammers falsely accused her of involvement in a money laundering case, keeping her under ‘digital arrest’ for 12 days before extracting the funds.
INTERNATIONAL
6. New Windows Vulnerabilities Exposed—CISA Urges Patching Before September 3
Microsoft’s Patch Tuesday updates addressed 90 Windows vulnerabilities, including five actively exploited zero-day attacks. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency urged everyone to apply patches by September 3 to prevent further attacks.
7. Cyber-Attack Triggers Phishing Scheme Across Greater Manchester Region
A cyber attack in Greater Manchester led to a phishing scam targeting housing service users. Thousands of residents received fraudulent emails requesting personal data. Authorities quickly removed the phishing site and advised victims to safeguard their information.
ALSO READ: FutureCrime Summit: Biggest Conference on Cyber Crimes Set to Return in February 2025
8. China-Supported Earth Baku Group Expands Cyber Attacks Across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa
China-backed Earth Baku threat group expanded its cyber operations to Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The group uses sophisticated malware and advanced hacking techniques to target governments, telecommunications, and other sectors, increasing global security concerns.
9. Massive Cyber Attack Hits Iranian Banks, One of the Largest on Record
A massive cyber attack targeted Iran’s banking system, causing significant disruptions and stealing account holder information. Anonymous activists mocked the regime through ATM messages. The attack is one of the largest in Iran’s history, highlighting its vulnerabilities.
10. Japan Plans DARPA-Inspired Agency to Address Growing Cyber Warfare Threats
Japan will launch a DARPA-style research institute focused on cyber warfare in October 2024. The government-run institute will develop advanced cyber war technologies to strengthen national defense, addressing the growing threat of cyber attacks against critical infrastructure.