As internet users become more aware about cyber threats, the perpetrators of cyber crimes find new ways to get what they want. Instead of stealing your money, an attacker may convince you to unwillingly give it to them. This new extortion technique works by hackers using the passwords of victims to lure them into giving out money. A twitter user shared an email which he got which went like this:
I’m aware that ____ is your password.
You don’t know me and you’re thinking why you received this e mail, right?
Well, I actually placed a malware on the porn website and guess what, you visited this web site to have fun (you know what I mean). While you were watching the video, your web browser acted as a RDP (Remote Desktop) and a keylogger which provided me access to your display screen and webcam. Right after that, my software gathered all your contacts from your Messenger, Facebook account, and email account.
What exactly did I do?
I made a split-screen video. First part recorded the video you were viewing (you’ve got a fine taste haha), and next part recorded your webcam (Yep! It’s you doing nasty things!).
What should you do?
Well, I believe, $1400 is a fair price for our little secret. You’ll make the payment via Bitcoin to the below address (if you don’t know this, search “how to buy bitcoin” in Google) .
BTC Address: 1Dvd7Wb72JBTbAcfTrxSJCZZuf4tsT8V72
(It is cAsE sensitive, so copy and paste it)Important:
You have 24 hours in order to make the payment. (I have an unique pixel within this email message, and right now I know that you have read this email). If I don’t get the payment, I will send your video to all of your contacts including relatives, coworkers, and so forth. Nonetheless, if I do get paid, I will erase the video immidiately. If you want evidence, reply with “Yes!” and I will send your video recording to your 5 friends. This is a non-negotiable offer, so don’t waste my time and yours by replying to this email.
Really crafty, I must admit. A couple more users reported to receiving emails of this nature. An interesting fact to note is that the passwords given are actually old passwords. All recipients of such messages claim the passwords listed are over decades old. The attacker doesn’t have the current password, which is something to be thankful about. As an online user, it is always advisable to change your password after about 6 months. Also use tools to check password strength, and ensure two-factor authentication methods.
Here, the attacker threatens to publicize videos of the sexual nature, which were gotten via the victim’s webcam. When , ahem, “having fun”, online, it is a wise option to cover your webcam with tape or some other opaque object. One can never be sure whether or not someone is watching. Also, if you ever receive such emails, do not fall for it.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments section.