Strategies for Securing Messages from Fraudsters: Key Things to Focus On
In the digital age, cybercrime continues to pose a significant threat to individuals and businesses worldwide. Russia has seen a surge in online scams, with criminals employing various tactics to trick unsuspecting victims.
One common method involves scammers threatening to release compromising materials, such as webcam videos or personal photos, into the public domain unless a payment is made. These materials are often obtained through unauthorised access to accounts or by tricking users into sharing sensitive information.
Another strategy used by cybercriminals is posing as potential employers offering remote work or freelance jobs. After requiring payment for training, tools, or a guarantee deposit, they vanish without a trace once the money is received.
Scammers also impersonate bank employees, government officials, or representatives of popular online services, sending messages asking users to click on a link to "confirm information." These links often lead to fake websites where login credentials can be stolen.
Users should be wary of sudden requests to perform actions quickly. If you receive such a message, always ask why and why it's necessary. There's a high probability it's a scam attempt.
Winning a lottery or a gift giveaway messages asking for payment for delivery or the provision of personal data are also common scams. Once the funds or personal information are provided, they fall into the hands of the scammers.
Subsequently, requests for money transfers to their contacts are sent under the victim's name.
In messengers, never share documents. Sharing documents can lead to losing your "Gosuslugi" account and unexpected microloans.
Cybercriminals also use password guessing or data breach databases to gain access to accounts. They may also use unexpected phone calls, unusual letters, or suspicious files received via messenger to steal accounts and access bank accounts.
In response to the rising tide of cybercrime, the German Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (Bundesamt für Verfassungsschutz, BfV) and the Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt, BKA) have announced they will update the current status on handling cybercrime and propose possible protection measures for internet users.
In a recent incident, a resident of Kursk lost nearly half a million rubles to scammers who used the messenger Max. Enhanced security measures in place in Max helped swiftly apprehend the scammers.
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Fake campaigns for collecting money for "medical treatment", "help for children" or animals are also created. Messages are spread through social media, messengers, and comments under posts of well-known people. Never click on uncertain links, as scammers can create clones of official bank and government pages. Always verify the authenticity of website addresses. A correct website address should start with "https://".
In the face of these threats, it's crucial to remain vigilant and cautious when online. Always verify the authenticity of messages and websites, and never share sensitive information without being certain of the recipient's identity.
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