Cyber Crime
Top 10 Daily Cybercrime Brief by FCRF [22.07.2024]: 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. 13 More Indians Rescued from Cyber Scams in Laos; Total Reach: 518
The Indian embassy in Laos announced the rescue and return of 13 Indians from cyber-scamming centers, bringing the total rescued to 518. These individuals were lured by fake job offers and forced into harsh conditions. The embassy thanked Lao authorities and warned against dubious recruitment practices targeting Indians.
2. Beware: Cybercriminals Exploit PDF Files to Steal Bank Information
Cybercriminals are scamming individuals by sending virus-infected PDF files via WhatsApp, disguised as messages from the Union Bank of India. Opening these files triggers unauthorized bank transfers. The Pimpri-Chinchwad police warned against clicking on unknown links. In a recent case, a Sangvi woman lost Rs 45,000 to this scam.
3. Telangana Becomes Cybercrime Hub in Infotech Sector
Hyderabad’s thriving IT industry and wealthy population have made it a prime target for cybercriminals, with Telangana reporting 15% of India’s malware attacks in 2023. Hyderabad ranks third in cybercrime, behind Surat and Bengaluru. Both individual and corporate targets, including IT and pharma companies, are increasingly victimized.
4. Goan Residents Lose Rs 11.5 Crore to Cyber Fraudsters in First Half of 2024
Goa citizens have lost over Rs 23 crore to cyber fraudsters in five and a half years, with 50% lost in 2024’s first half. Over 160 cases have been registered since 2019. High-profile victims, including a doctor and a jeweler, were lured through fake investment schemes. Young girls are often targeted via social media.
5. IAS Officer Usha Padhee Alerts on Cyber Fraud Impersonating Her for Money
Senior IAS officer Usha Padhee warned of a cyber fraudster using her name to solicit money via WhatsApp. The scammer requested Rs. 50,000, promising repayment. Padhee reported the incident to authorities and urged vigilance. Currently, she is the Principal Secretary for Housing, Urban Development, Skill Development, and Transport in Odisha.
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6. Cybersecurity Experts Warn of Phishing Attacks Amid IT Outage Issues
Global cybersecurity agencies warned against malicious websites exploiting an IT outage caused by a faulty CrowdStrike update. The incident disrupted airlines, healthcare, and other sectors. Phishing attacks increased, and CrowdStrike advised using official communication channels. The outage’s effects linger, impacting flight schedules and healthcare services globally.
7. Faulty Software Update Disrupts Airlines, Hospitals, and Governments Worldwide
A faulty CrowdStrike software update caused a global IT outage, disrupting flights, financial companies, news outlets, hospitals, and government offices. The incident affected Microsoft Windows users, leading to widespread cancellations and delays. CrowdStrike issued an apology and is working on a fix, but recovery is expected to take time.
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8. Canadian Government Urges Immediate Cybersecurity Measures in Oil and Gas Industry
Canada’s oil and gas sector, vital to the economy and national security, faces rising cyber threats due to digital transformation. The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security reports increasing cyber incidents, especially ransomware and Business Email Compromise (BEC). Enhanced cybersecurity measures and public-private collaboration are urgently needed to protect this critical infrastructure.
9. Delta Air Lines Experiences Major Flight cancellations Due to IT Outage
Delta Air Lines faced significant disruptions after a global cyber outage caused by a CrowdStrike software update, canceling about 1,000 flights on Sunday. The outage affected Delta’s crew tracking system, stranding thousands of passengers. Delta has not provided a timeline for resuming normal operations.
10. Ukraine: Cyber Attack Targets Over 270 Telegram Channels with Calls to “Surrender Arms”
Over 270 Ukrainian Telegram channels were targeted by a cyber attack from the Russian FleepBot service, sending messages urging users to “lay down their arms,” according to the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). The attack also included provocative messages accusing President Volodymyr Zelensky of starting the war.