Cyber Crime
Top 10 Daily Cybercrime Brief by FCRF [12.01.2025]: 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. Two Held for Aiding Dubai-Based Cyber Fraudsters
The Chinchwad police arrested two individuals for aiding Dubai-based cybercriminals in a Rs 76 lakh fraud. They recruited mules in Pune, used their bank accounts to receive and withdraw scam funds, and transferred the money. A victim lost Rs 76.11 lakh in a fake stock investment scheme promising high returns.
2. Cybercrime Middlemen Arrested for Facilitating Scams
Gandhinagar police arrested two individuals for a Rs 30 crore cyber fraud. The duo used 50 bank accounts across 10 states, recruiting mules for commissions. They duped a techie couple into transferring Rs 2.5 lakh and routed funds through angadia firms in Surendranagar and Rajkot. Investigation is ongoing.
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3. Cyber Police Recover Rs 13 Lakh Stolen in Online Fraud Cases
The Cyber Cell of J&K Police in Kulgam resolved multiple online financial fraud cases, recovering Rs 13.69 lakh. Scams involved fake investment schemes promising high returns. Acting swiftly, police froze fraudulent transactions using advanced cyber tools and credited the recovered amount back to the victims, ensuring justice and relief.
4. Bengaluru Techie Duped of Rs 1.2 Crore in Sophisticated Cyber Scam
A 28-year-old Bengaluru software engineer lost Rs 1.2 crore in a cyber scam involving a fake “digital arrest” threat. Fraudsters posing as officials accused her of money laundering and convinced her to transfer funds for verification. Using counterfeit documents, they manipulated her into liquidating assets. Police are investigating the case.
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5. 30 Cybercriminals Nabbed in Jaipur as Part of ‘Operation Cyber Shield’
Under ‘Operation Cyber Shield,’ Rajasthan Police arrested 30 cyber fraudsters in Jaipur, uncovering Rs 30 crore worth of fraud. Raids across five police station areas also detained two minors and disrupted eight gangs. Evidence seized included bank accounts, devices, and passports. The campaign focuses on tackling cybercrimes and promoting public awareness.
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6. DoJ Charges Three Russians for Running Crypto Mixers in Cybercrime Schemes
The U.S. Department of Justice indicted three Russians for operating crypto mixers Blender.io and Sinbad.io, used to launder ransomware and fraud proceeds. Two suspects were arrested; one remains at large. The mixers facilitated laundering for cybercriminals, including the Lazarus Group. Charges carry up to 25 years in prison.
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7. Phishing Scam: Fake CrowdStrike Recruiters Spread Malware
Cybercriminals are impersonating CrowdStrike recruiters to distribute cryptominer malware via phishing emails targeting job seekers. Victims are tricked into downloading fake CRM apps, installing XMRig to mine Monero cryptocurrency. The malware evades detection using stealth tactics. CrowdStrike urges verifying job offers through official channels and avoiding unsolicited downloads for safety.
8. Government Plans Cybersecurity Campaign in Schools Nationwide: Fahmi
The government will soon launch cybersecurity campaigns in all primary and secondary schools, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced. The initiative aims to educate parents, teachers, and students on avoiding scams and online crimes. Primary students will be discouraged from using social media, while secondary students will learn safe internet practices.
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9. Fake PoC Exploit Infects Cybersecurity Researchers with Malware
A fake Proof-of-Concept (PoC) exploit, “LDAPNightmare,” targets security researchers by disguising malware as a PoC for the CVE-2024-49113 vulnerability in Windows LDAP. The malware steals system and network data, using a fake repository to appear legitimate. Researchers are urged to verify repository authenticity and prioritize official sources for safety.
10. Muddling Meerkat Group Tied to Domain Spoofing and Global Spam Scams
Infoblox uncovered large-scale spam campaigns linked to domain spoofing by the threat actor “Muddling Meerkat.” Techniques included QR code phishing, brand impersonation, and extortion. Despite security measures, spoofing remains effective, bypassing detection. Researchers highlighted the need for stronger cybersecurity measures to counter evolving spam tactics and protect against global threats.