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. Pune Biopharma Firm Hit by Ransomware Attack; Hackers Demand $80,000(Rs.68,08,588)
A Pune-based multinational biopharma firm suffered a ransomware attack, with cybercriminals encrypting critical server data and demanding $80,000(Rs. 68,08,588) for decryption. The hackers also threatened to sell proprietary data on the dark web. Pimpri Chinchwad Cyber Police launched an investigation following an FIR filed by a company executive on Monday.
2. Gujarat Cyber Crime Busts ₹2 Crore Instagram Gaming Scam; 7 Arrested
CID Crime arrested seven people in a ₹2 crore Instagram gaming app scam. The gang lured victims by offering in-game coins, then threatened them with false legal cases. Investigators traced 17 linked bank accounts in Palanpur, Gujarat, uncovering a large-scale cyber fraud targeting users across multiple states.
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3. Mumbai Cyber Police Uncover ₹18 Crore Share Trading Fraud, Three Nabbed in Bandra
Mumbai Police’s North Division Cyber Cell busted a ₹18 crore share trading scam, arresting three accused. Victims were lured via WhatsApp groups posing as IIFL Securities, using fake tips and screenshots. A Goregaon resident lost ₹2.77 crore after downloading a bogus trading app shared through a suspicious link.
4. Retired Doctor and Daughter Lose ₹11.93 Lakh in Sophisticated Cyber Scam
A 90-year-old retired doctor and his 65-year-old daughter, a former professor from Sweden, lost Rs 11.93 lakh in a cyber fraud in Mumbai. Scammers posed as medical insurance agents and tricked the victims into transferring money under the pretext of securing health coverage. An FIR has been registered.
5. Delhi Businessman Duped of ₹4.04 Crore in WhatsApp Stock Trading Fraud; FIR Filed
A Delhi-based businessman lost ₹4.04 crore to a fake stock trading scam operated via WhatsApp. The cyber fraud involved deceptive investment schemes promoted through the messaging platform. Delhi Police’s cyber unit has registered an FIR and launched an investigation to identify and apprehend those behind the digital con.
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6. Scattered Spider Believed to Be Behind M&S Cyberattack Chaos
The Marks & Spencer cyberattack has been linked to the Scattered Spider group, causing widespread disruption. The incident led to contactless payment failures, delays in online deliveries, and major stock shortages across physical stores. M&S continues to recover as investigations into the group’s role and methods remain ongoing.
7. JokerOTP Phishing Platform Dismantled After 28,000+ Cyber Attacks
UK and Dutch authorities have dismantled JokerOTP, a phishing platform used in over 28,000 attacks across 13 countries. Two suspects were arrested for bypassing 2FA and stealing £7.5 million. JokerOTP enabled fraudsters to impersonate banks and extract OTPs. Authorities urge users to stay cautious and never share verification codes.
8. UK Cracks Down on SIM Farms to Combat Telecom and Cyber Fraud
The UK has become Europe’s first country to ban SIM farms, targeting rising mobile-enabled cyber fraud. SIM farms enable mass scam texts, phishing, and fake accounts. Under new legislation, offenders face unlimited fines in England and Wales, and a £5,000 penalty in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Enforcement begins post-Royal Assent.
9. Ransomware to ‘pig butchering’: The new cyber threats in Africa
Online scams in Africa are becoming more sophisticated as hackers exploit data leaks to launch targeted attacks. Social media platforms are increasingly used to spread fraudulent schemes, luring victims with fake investment offers, job opportunities, and giveaways. Authorities warn users to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity immediately.
10. Alabama Suffers Over $60 Million Loss to Cybercrime in Major Breach
The FBI Birmingham Division warns that cybercrime is rising sharply, yet many incidents go unreported. Special Agent Christina Wessel advises the public to avoid clicking unknown links, verify suspicious messages, and be wary of cryptocurrency kiosks and fake inheritance scams, stressing that such tactics are common tools used by fraudsters.