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. Cyber Fraud Victim Loses Over ₹24 Crore in 96 Online Transactions, Say Police
Police revealed a shocking case where a victim lost ₹24 crore in 96 separate transactions to cyber fraudsters. The scam involved sophisticated manipulation and sustained pressure tactics. Authorities stressed the need for vigilance and quick reporting, as such cases highlight the alarming scale of financial cybercrime in India.
2. Bengaluru Man Arrested for Orchestrating ‘Digital Arrest’ Fraud
A Bengaluru man was arrested for running a digital arrest fraud, where victims are threatened with fake legal action and coerced into transferring money. The accused posed as law enforcement to extort funds. Police urged citizens to remain cautious and report such intimidation tactics on cybercrime.gov.in or helpline 1930.
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3. Ahmedabad Senior Citizen Duped of ₹39 Lakh in Digital Arrest Scam
In Ahmedabad, a retired senior citizen lost ₹39 lakh after falling victim to a digital arrest scam. Fraudsters posed as law enforcement officials, fabricated criminal charges, and intimidated the victim into transferring funds. Police said elderly citizens are being increasingly targeted and urged families to spread awareness against such scams.
4. Hyderabad Cyber Fraud: Duo Loses ₹6 Lakh to Fake RTO Challan Scam
Two Hyderabad residents were duped of ₹6 lakh in a fake RTO challan scam. Cybercriminals sent fraudulent notices and payment links disguised as official traffic fines. Victims transferred money believing the messages were genuine. Police are tracing the fraudsters and have warned the public against clicking on suspicious links.
5. Investor Trapped in Stock Market Scam, Loses ₹73 Lakh to Cyber Fraudsters
A man lost ₹73 lakh after being tricked by cybercriminals posing as stock market investment advisors. Lured by promises of high returns, he transferred funds into fraudulent accounts. Police said stock market scams are on the rise and advised investors to verify platforms and avoid unregulated schemes.
INTERNATIONAL
6. Cybercriminals Use HexStrike AI Tool to Exploit Citrix Vulnerabilities
Hackers claim that the HexStrike AI penetration tool can easily exploit Citrix vulnerabilities, allowing faster break-ins into corporate systems. Security experts warn that AI-driven hacking tools are lowering barriers for cybercriminals and intensifying risks for enterprises dependent on Citrix for remote access and virtual desktop infrastructure.
7. HexStrike AI Repurposed by Hackers to Target New Security Flaws
Cybercriminals have weaponized HexStrike AI to discover and exploit fresh vulnerabilities across enterprise systems. The AI-driven tool automates reconnaissance and exploitation, making attacks more efficient. Researchers caution that such tools may trigger a new wave of AI-powered cybercrime, where machine learning accelerates discovery of flaws faster than defenders can patch.
Final Call: Be DPDP Act Ready with FCRF’s Certified Data Protection Officer Program
8. Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Suffers Ransomware Attack
The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office was crippled by a ransomware attack that disrupted operations and exposed sensitive files. Investigators are probing whether criminal gangs or state-linked actors were responsible. Officials are working to restore systems and reassure citizens while cybersecurity teams race to contain the damage and prevent further leaks.
9. M&S Hackers Claim They Orchestrated Jaguar Land Rover Cyberattack
Hackers behind the Marks & Spencer (M&S) breach have claimed responsibility for the Jaguar Land Rover cyberattack, raising concerns about cross-targeted campaigns. The group allegedly exfiltrated sensitive corporate data. Security analysts say the claims, if true, reflect expanding operations by retail-focused threat actors now targeting global automotive manufacturers.
10. Fake AnyDesk Installer Spreads MetaStealer via ClickFix Scam
A malicious AnyDesk installer is being used to spread the MetaStealer malware through the ClickFix scam. Victims tricked into downloading the fake tool unknowingly grant attackers remote access and credential theft. Security experts warn users to download software only from official websites and remain alert to rising remote tool scams.