FBI issues 'Billion Dollar' hacker warning

cypac1
2 minutes ago
2 min read

Happy Friday

Since the FBI issued their Phantom Hacker advisory, over $1 billion in losses have been reported to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). We all know that number is waaaay conservative and with the help of AI, these scams have been growing rapidly in number and success over the past 12 months.

Phantom Hacker scams target vulnerable citizens such as the elderly, luring their victims into downloading software on computers or apps onto phones that give criminals control over their finances. The tactics vary, but they all have one thing in common: building that trust. Scammers are boldly impersonating banks, well-known companies (such as Microsoft), federal employees, law enforcement, or any agency they believe will pressure victims into granting access to their hard earned savings. This graphic lays out how Phantom Hacker Scams work:

The Takeaway

The lesson here is simple and easy to teach to others: never download software, move money, visit a website, or change computer settings at the request of an unknown individual who contacts you.

It really is that simple. When in doubt, you can always reach out directly to the bank or agency the scammer is impersonating. Just carry a truck full of of skepticism with you at all times.

Remember, it's up to us to stay informed, to inform others, and try to prevent another billion dollars from being stolen.

Stay safe out there.

-Attila

The Positivity Box

A Chinese software developer was sentenced this week to four years in prison for causing intentional damage to protected computers by deploying malicious code, including a “kill switch” in the network of his employer. The insider threat was motivated by personal disgruntlement with the company, with no indication of nation-state involvement. This case is a reminder that threats do not always come from far-off countries and can just as easily come from the person sitting right next to you at the workplace.

New Friday Funnies!