Recent reports indicate that cybercrime groups are using deceptive tactics on websites and dating applications to target unsuspecting users. These attackers prey on people’s fears regarding online dangers, persuading them to undergo fake “verification” processes through specialized apps. Through this method, personal information is stolen and money is siphoned from victims’ accounts.
In response to this concerning trend, the FBI has issued a warning, comparing this scheme to the infamous “Pig cuts” scam that has plagued internet users in recent years.
Upon establishing contact on dating platforms, criminals quickly steer conversations to encrypted messaging services like WhatsApp or Telegram to avoid detection.
According to the FBI, scammers use a guise of security concern to lure victims into clicking on a link that promises “Free Verification” to protect them from dangerous individuals such as criminals, pedophiles, serial killers, and maniacs.