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. Man Dies in Nizamabad Cyber Crime Police Custody; Case Filed
A 31-year-old man, died in Nizamabad Cyber Crime police custody, sparking protests from his family alleging police torture. Arrested for human trafficking linked to cyber crimes in Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos, he collapsed after complaining of chest pain. Police deny allegations, citing medical evidence and video footage.
2. Myanmar Cyber Scam: Eight Arrested for Trafficking 24 Telangana Residents
The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau arrested eight people for trafficking 24 Telangana residents to Myanmar under false job offers, forcing them into cyber scams. India has repatriated 549 citizens from scam hubs. Police identified 15 suspects, with five still abroad, and urged caution against suspicious overseas job offers.
3. Woman Scammed of Rs 3.16 Crore in Fake Marriage Fraud
A 45-year-old woman from Wakad lost Rs 3.16 crore to cyber fraudsters on a matrimonial site. Posing as a businessman, the fraudster promised marriage and tricked her into transferring money for fake financial issues. Police have booked the fraudster, his accomplices, and bank account holders involved in the scam.
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4. Hyderabad Firm Almost Loses Rs 1.95 Crore to ‘Boss’ WhatsApp Scam
A Hyderabad firm narrowly avoided losing Rs 1.95 crore in a WhatsApp scam after its accounts officer received a fake payment request from cybercriminals posing as the MD. The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau swiftly recovered the funds. Authorities urge caution as cyber fraud cases continue to rise across India.
5. 71-Year-Old Woman Duped of Rs 4.82 Crore by Fraudsters Impersonating TRAI, Customs Officials
A 71-year-old Mumbai woman lost Rs 4.82 crore to cyber fraudsters posing as TRAI, Customs officials, and a judge. Tricked into a fake court trial via WhatsApp video call, she was coerced into transferring money. The Central Cyber Police registered a case, warning against such sophisticated online scams.
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6. Israeli LockBit Developer Rostislav Panev Extradited to U.S. on Cybercrime Charges
Russian-Israeli national Rostislav Panev, a LockBit ransomware developer, was extradited to the U.S. after his arrest in Israel. Accused of aiding cyber attacks on 2,500 entities worldwide, he earned $230,000 for writing malware. U.S. authorities have charged six others, including LockBit’s alleged leader, Dmitry Khoroshev.
7. Cybercriminals Steal Over $1 Million from Bar Harbor School Construction Fund
A cybercrime targeted the Mount Desert Island Regional School System, stealing over $1 million from Bar Harbor’s school construction funds. Fraudsters altered bank details, leading to an incorrect transfer. Authorities, including the FBI, are investigating. The district is reviewing financial procedures and enhancing cybersecurity to prevent future fraud.
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8. Interpol Crackdown: 5,000 Arrested, $400 Million Seized in Global Cybercrime Operation
Interpol’s Operation HAECHI V led to over 5,500 arrests and the seizure of $400 million from cybercriminals. Targeting scams like phishing, investment fraud, and crypto scams, it dismantled major fraud networks. Using its stop-payment system, Interpol also prevented a $42.3 million wire fraud, highlighting the importance of global cooperation.
9. New Microsoft 365 Phishing Scam Tricks Users with Fake Support Calls
A new Microsoft 365 phishing scam exploits legitimate Microsoft cloud services to bypass security checks. Attackers create fake tenants, sending official-looking emails with fraudulent warnings and phone numbers. Victims calling the numbers face credential theft or malware risks. Users should verify purchases independently and avoid urgent calls-to-action in emails.
10. U.S. Charges LockBit Ransomware Developer in Major Cybercrime Crackdown
The U.S. DOJ has charged Rostislav Panev, a LockBit ransomware developer, following his arrest in Israel. Accused of creating malware and aiding cyberattacks, he awaits extradition. Global law enforcement, including Europol and the U.K., disrupted LockBit’s operations. Authorities continue targeting ransomware networks, offering rewards for key members’ arrests.