Cyber Crime
Top 10 Daily Cybercrime Brief by FCRF [01.10.2024]: 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. Uttarakhand Man Involved in Global Cyber Scam Operations
Uttarakhand Police arrested “Sohil,” a cybercrime mastermind, for scamming women into providing personal data under false government schemes. He used this information to acquire SIM cards, generate OTPs, and sell them to criminals across South Asia. Authorities seized 1,816 SIM cards and other equipment during raids.
2. Jammu Cyber Cell Cracks Online Fraud Case, Recovers Rs.1 Lakh
The Jammu Cyber Cell successfully recovered Rs.1 lakh from a fraudster who deceived victims using various tactics. Upon receiving a complaint, the unit swiftly initiated investigations, demonstrating professionalism and expertise. Equipped with advanced technology, the District Police Jammu remains committed to combating cybercrime and ensuring public safety.
Also read: Click to Take the Pledge: Future Crime Research Foundation Celebrates Cybersecurity Awareness Month with Daily Pledge and Cyber Safety Calendar
3. Vodafone Idea Leverages Nokia NetGuard to Safeguard Consumers from Cyber Threats
Vodafone Idea Limited has implemented Nokia’s NetGuard Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) to enhance network security against rising cyber threats. This solution offers real-time monitoring and automated threat detection, initially for 4G networks and later for 5G, while integrating with existing security tools to protect subscribers effectively.
4. Telecom Ministry to Cut Off 21.7 Million Mobile Connections Amid ‘Cyber Slavery’ Reports
The Union Ministry of Telecommunications plans to disconnect 2.17 crore mobile connections linked to forged documents or cybercrime, and block 2.26 lakh handsets. This follows concerns about over 5,000 Indians trapped in Cambodia for cyber fraud, with victims losing ₹500 crore. Measures include enhanced KYC and blocking spoofed calls.
ALSO READ: Join The Movement: Registration Open for ‘Cyber Safe Uttar Pradesh’ Event by FCRF on October 17
5. New Measures Introduced to Tackle Spam and Cyber Fraud in India
Authorities and telecom companies in India are joining forces to tackle spam and unsolicited commercial communication, linked to cyber fraud and phishing attacks. The Department of Telecom (DoT), regulator Trai, and private operators are implementing new measures to address these issues.
INTERNATIONAL
6. Ireland Grants Emergency Powers to National Cyber Security Centre
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) director, Richard Browne, announced plans for “intrusive” monitoring powers similar to those used in France during the Olympics. The NCSC can seek High Court approval for these powers amid rising cybersecurity threats and foreign interference, especially as Ireland prepares for upcoming elections.
7. Agence France-Presse Hit by Cyberattack Targeting IT Infrastructure
Hackers attacked Agence France-Presse (AFP) on Friday, impacting parts of its delivery service. The cause remains unknown, and no group has claimed responsibility. AFP’s technical teams are collaborating with France’s cybersecurity agency, while the company continues to provide news coverage despite intermittent website outages.
8. Cyberattacks Impact Over One-Third of Schools in England
A government report reveals that 34% of English schools and colleges faced cyber incidents in the 2023/24 academic year. Phishing attacks were the most common, affecting 23% of institutions. Many teachers reported disruptions, and Ofqual urges improved cybersecurity training and measures to protect sensitive data amid increasing vulnerabilities.
9. WalletConnect-Facilitated Crypto Scam App Steals $70,000 Over Five Months
Researchers discovered a malicious Android app on the Google Play Store that stole around $70,000 in cryptocurrencies by posing as WalletConnect. The app tricked users into signing transactions, allowing attackers to drain assets. This incident highlights the increasing sophistication of cybercriminal tactics in decentralized finance.
10. U.K. Hacker Indicted in $3.75 Million Insider Trading Scheme via Hacked Executive Emails
The U.S. Department of Justice has charged Robert Westbrook, a 39-year-old U.K. national, with a hack-to-trade fraud scheme that allegedly earned him nearly $3.75 million. Westbrook accessed Microsoft 365 accounts of corporate executives to obtain non-public information, leading to securities and wire fraud charges with severe penalties.