The FBI of the United States has issued a warning about a new type of fraud that cybercriminals have been using. These criminals are offering victims technical support and demanding that they send them cash through a parcel. According to data from the FBI, this type of fraud has become more common recently, especially among the elderly.
The scheme of deception works as follows: the fraudster pretends to be a representative of a legitimate company and contacts the victim via phone, email, or a pop-up message on their computer. They claim that fraudulent activity has occurred on the victim’s account or that the user is due a refund for a subscription. However, the only way to receive the money, according to the fraudster, is to provide them with remote access to the victim’s computer so that a “specialist” can make a transfer.
To gain remote access, the victim is asked to download a remote access tool, which can contain numerous malicious programs. Once connected, the fraudster instructs the victim to log into their bank’s website, allowing the fraudster to collect their account information. The criminal then makes a fictitious transfer to the victim’s account, intentionally transferring more money than necessary. Afterwards, the fraudster claims there was a mistake and asks the victim to return the excess amount, threatening job termination if they refuse.
Unlike other tech support scams where scammers typically ask for money through bank transfers, cryptocurrency, or gift cards, these criminals request that victims send cash wrapped in a journal or envelope through a delivery service to the address they provide. Often, these addresses are pharmacies or other locations where parcels can be picked up.
The FBI is urging the public to be cautious and avoid falling for these scams. They advise individuals not to download programs from unknown sources, avoid allowing strangers to control their computers, and refrain from clicking on links or calling numbers received through messages, emails, or pop-up ads. Vigilance is crucial in preventing these types of fraud.
Earlier, we reported that in Ufa, the police arrested a fraudster who stole personal data from 130 Russians on public services and used the information to apply for microloans. The man created several phishing websites that resembled official portals of public services and other government institutions.
In another incident in 2018, a cyberattack took place in Oxford, England, targeting a local company. The extortion group behind the attack encrypted the company’s data. Fearing significant losses, the company’s management decided to pay the ransom demanded by the attackers. However, an IT analyst within the company took advantage of their position