The Top Ten cyber crime news summaries on The420 are meticulously curated by Future Crime Researchers from the Future Crime Research Foundation (FCRF) and powered by Algoritha Security Pvt. Ltd. These summaries feature the most critical cyber crime developments from around the world. Keep reading—and stay safe.
1. Chandigarh Police Arrest Four in Major Online Scam Crackdown
Chandigarh Police arrested four individuals linked to online scams in three separate FIRs registered at the Cyber Crime police station. The accused were involved in fraudulent activities targeting unsuspecting victims through digital platforms. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the extent of their operations and identify potential accomplices in the scams.
2. Mumbai Records ₹2.95 Lakh Crore in Financial Frauds Over the Last Decade
Mumbai has witnessed financial frauds totaling ₹2.95 lakh crore over the past decade, according to official data. These cases involve bank frauds, cyber scams, and corporate misappropriation. Authorities have intensified monitoring and investigation efforts, but the scale highlights persistent loopholes in financial oversight and growing sophistication in fraudulent operations.
3. Fake Helpline Scam: Man Defrauded of ₹14.9 Lakh by Cybercriminals
A man lost ₹14.9 lakh in a fake helpline scam after contacting a fraudulent number for assistance. Cybercriminals posed as customer support agents, tricking him into sharing sensitive banking details. The victim was manipulated into making multiple transactions before realizing the fraud. A police complaint has been registered for investigation.
4. Crypto Trader Held in ₹2 Crore WhatsApp Investment Scam by National Cyber Gang
A crypto trader was arrested for his role in a ₹2 crore scam executed via WhatsApp by a pan-India cybercrime gang. The group lured victims with fake investment schemes, siphoning funds through multiple accounts. Authorities are probing deeper links as more arrests are expected in the ongoing investigation.
5. ED Conducts Raids in Cyber Fraud Case Involving Chinese Citizen
The Enforcement Directorate conducted raids in a cyber fraud case involving a Chinese national linked to illegal online activities. The operation targeted multiple locations suspected of laundering money through shell companies and digital wallets. Officials seized electronic devices and documents as part of an ongoing investigation into cross-border cybercrime networks.
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6. Anti-Israel Hacktivism on the Rise: Experts Warn of a New Wave Beyond Campus Protests
Cybersecurity experts warn that anti-Israel hacktivism is escalating and may soon replace campus protests as the preferred form of dissent. Online attacks, defacements, and data leaks are expected to surge, targeting institutions and supporters of Israel. Experts view this as a digital evolution of political activism with growing global implications.
7. Cl0p Ransomware Group’s Own Data Theft Tool Found Vulnerable to RCE Exploits
Security researchers have discovered a critical vulnerability in the Cl0p ransomware gang’s own data exfiltration tool, exposing it to remote code execution (RCE) attacks. Ironically, the flaw could allow outsiders to compromise the gang’s infrastructure. Experts highlight the finding as a rare instance of cybercriminals being exposed by their own tools.
8. Chinese Student Indicted in U.S. for Leading Smishing Scam to Steal Personal Data
A Chinese student studying in the U.S. has been indicted for orchestrating a widespread smishing campaign aimed at stealing personal data. Authorities allege the student sent fake text messages impersonating banks and service providers, tricking victims into revealing sensitive information. The charges include wire fraud, identity theft, and computer-related crimes.
9. Nigeria Enforces New Cybercrime Act, Warns WhatsApp and Social Media Users of Penalties
Nigeria’s Federal Government has enforced the updated Cybercrimes Act, issuing stern warnings to WhatsApp users and others on digital platforms. The law targets online offenses like fraud, impersonation, and cyberbullying. Authorities urge strict compliance, warning that violators will face legal consequences under the new provisions now officially in effect.
10. Hackers Use Fake PDFs to Mimic Microsoft, DocuSign, Dropbox in Sophisticated Phishing Campaigns
Cybercriminals are leveraging malicious PDF files to impersonate trusted brands like Microsoft, DocuSign, and Dropbox in sophisticated phishing attacks. These fake documents lure victims into clicking harmful links, leading to credential theft and malware infections. Security experts urge users to verify sources before opening unexpected attachments from known platforms.