Cyber Crime
Top 10 Daily Cybercrime Brief by FCRF [25.11.2024]: 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. Cyber Crime Police Recover Rs 3.59 Lakh for Three Online Scam Victims
The Hyderabad cyber crime police refunded Rs 3.59 lakh to three victims of online fraud. Cases involved phishing calls, fake APK links, and malware compromising credit cards. Prompt actions by the cyber police and notices to payment gateways and merchants led to successful refunds without court orders, highlighting the importance of timely reporting.
2. Goa Police Crack Down on Illegal Call Centre, Arrest 24 Individuals
Goa cyber crime police busted an illegal call centre in Zuarinagar, South Goa, arresting 24 individuals from across India. The center, operational for a month, scammed US citizens by impersonating employees of Amazon, PayPal, and government agencies, committing fraud worth over Rs 1 crore. Employees earned Rs 35,000-Rs 40,000 monthly.
3. Rs 12 Lakh Recovered for Victim of FedEx Parcel Fraud
Hyderabad cyber crime police refunded Rs 12 lakh to a victim scammed by fraudsters posing as FedEx and fake police. The victim lost Rs 16 lakh in the fraud. Prompt action, including freezing accounts and guiding legal procedures, enabled the recovery. Police warned against falling for fake calls demanding money or sensitive details.
4. Retired Officer Loses Rs 1 Crore in Complex Cyber Scam
A retired government officer in Mandi, Himanchal Pradesh lost Rs 1 crore in a cyber scam after fraudsters, posing as customs officials and embassy staff, exploited his trust. They lured him through a fake social media connection, claiming customs fees for gifts. Police urge caution and immediate reporting of suspicious activities.
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5. Hyderabad Cyber Police Recover Rs 44 Lakh for Three Fraud Victims
Hyderabad cybercrime police recovered Rs 44.84 lakh for three victims of online scams. Cases included frauds involving stock trading, digital extortion, and internet banking. Prompt action by police, including freezing accounts and coordinating with banks, ensured refunds of Rs 11.05 lakh, Rs 12 lakh, and Rs 21.78 lakh to the victims’ accounts.
INTERNATIONAL
6. AFP teams up with Philippine counterparts to identify Aussie scam victims
Philippine authorities arrested over 250 cybercriminals linked to scams targeting Australians. The AFP, collaborating with PAOCC and NBI, is identifying victims and analyzing money laundering tactics. AFP Assistant Commissioner David McLean called the bust a key step in Operation Firestorm, aimed at dismantling offshore cybercrime syndicates affecting Australia.
7. Major Cybercrime Crackdowns Highlight Global Shift in Cybersecurity Tactics
LockBit ransomware gang resurfaces despite global crackdowns through Operations Cronos and Endgame, which dismantled cybercrime infrastructure and disrupted ransomware networks. These operations marked a shift towards targeting cybercrime tools, not just hackers. However, LockBit’s return highlights the need for stronger global collaboration, advanced tactics, and robust organizational defenses to combat evolving threats.
8. Hackers Turn to ‘Adversary-in-the-Middle’ Attacks to Bypass MFA
Microsoft disrupted over 240 fraudulent websites linked to Egypt-based cybercriminal Abanoub Nady, who sold DIY phishing kits under the fake ONNX brand. Using advanced “adversary in the middle” (AiTM) attacks to bypass MFA, the operation targeted major companies. Microsoft emphasized ongoing vigilance to counter evolving phishing-as-a-service threats.
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9. China Compromises Thousands of Devices in US Telecom Networks
The Biden administration held talks with telecom executives following revelations of China’s extensive cyberattacks on US networks. Senator Mark Warner warned of a persistent Chinese presence, requiring the replacement of thousands of devices. Officials emphasized the severity of Beijing’s cyber espionage, targeting telecom data and potentially compromising national security.
10. 99% of UAE’s .ae Domains Vulnerable to Phishing and Spoofing Risks
A study by EasyDMARC revealed that 99% of UAE’s .ae domains lack proper email security, making them vulnerable to phishing. Only 1.11% use DMARC, with most offering limited protection. With rising AI-driven cyberattacks, experts urge UAE organizations to adopt strict DMARC policies to safeguard against financial and reputational risks.
