Cyber Crime
Top 10 Daily Cybercrime Brief by FCRF [28.01.2025]: 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 Fraudsters Cheat Panchkula Residents of Lakhs
Three cyber fraud cases were reported in Panchkula. Victims lost over Rs 6 lakh through scams involving fake credit card offers, fraudulent OTPs, and job hoaxes. Scammers posed as bank officials and recruiters, tricking residents into sharing sensitive information or depositing money. Police investigations into the incidents are ongoing.
2. Goa Police Targets Illegal Gambling, Blocks 61 Websites
Goa’s Cyber Crime Police blocked 61 gambling websites in a crackdown on illegal online operations, adding to 157 sites and accounts blocked since November 2024. Authorities, citing financial fraud concerns, urged public vigilance and reporting of suspicious activities to combat rising online gambling scams and ensure a safer digital environment.
Registrations Open for FutureCrime Summit 2025: India’s Largest Conference on Technology-Driven Crime
3. Hyderabad Woman Loses Rs 40,000 in Instagram Lehenga Scam
A Hyderabad woman, lost Rs 40,000 in a scam while ordering a discounted lehenga from an Instagram page. After paying Rs 1,000, the product didn’t arrive. Fraudsters, posing as representatives, tricked her into revealing account details, leading to the theft. Police are investigating the incident.
4. UP Man Arrested for Cyber Fraud in Kerala’s Kochi
A Kochi businessman lost Rs 10 lakh in an online fraud orchestrated by Uttar Pradesh’s 28 year old, who sent a fake Aadhaar update APK to access OTPs. Arrested in Greater Noida, police seized bank documents, luxury items, and evidence linking him to other frauds. Investigations continue.
5. 67 Indians Rescued from Cyber Scam Syndicates in Laos
The Indian Embassy in Laos rescued 67 Indian youths trafficked into cyber-scam centers in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone. Officials facilitated their safe exit and assured full support for their return to India. The Embassy warned job seekers against trafficking scams and urged vigilance when offered jobs abroad.
INTERNATIONAL
6. Breaking Bad Star’s X Account Hacked by Meme Coin Scammers
Dean Norris, known as Hank Schrader from Breaking Bad, confirmed his X account was hacked to promote the DEAN meme coin scam. The hackers allegedly used a Cameo video to make the scam convincing. While the fraudulent post was removed, victims reported losses, highlighting the rise in high-profile social media hacks.
7. Police Probe Requested Over Fake News on President’s Health
UPND Secretary General Batuke Imenda urged police to investigate false news about President Hakainde Hichilema’s health, calling it a cybercrime. He criticized the opposition for spreading misinformation and warned of legal consequences under the Cyber Security and Cyber Crime Act. Imenda emphasized the need for civil political conduct.
8. Ex-BreachForums Owner Faces Resentencing for Violating Release Terms
Connor Fitzpatrick, founder of dark web platform BreachForums, faces resentencing after an appellate court overturned a District Court decision that freed him following 17 days in prison. Fitzpatrick’s case, linked to cybercrime activities, is now under renewed legal scrutiny in the Eastern District of Virginia.
9. TalkTalk Probes Alleged Data Breach Amid Claims of Customer Data Sale
UK telecom provider TalkTalk is investigating a suspected data breach linked to a third-party supplier. The breach reportedly involves claims of customer data being sold on hacking forums. TalkTalk is working to assess the extent of the incident and ensure the protection of its customers’ information.
10. FBI Warns to Disable Local Admin Accounts Amid Rising Cyber Attacks
The FBI has issued a warning about North Korean IT workers infiltrating U.S. businesses to steal sensitive data and enable cybercrimes. These attacks involve data ransom, corporate code theft, and credential harvesting. The FBI advises disabling local admin accounts and enhancing cybersecurity measures to protect against such sophisticated threats.