Cybercrooks’ Latest Trick: Pose As Govt Agencies To Con People
Pune: Unknown Caller Demands ₹70 Lakh From Waste Paper Shop Owner, Booked
In a disturbing trend, cybercriminals are increasingly posing as central government agencies to deceive people, with this method accounting for a whopping 36% of cases in 2024. This shocking revelation comes from a yearly cybersecurity threat report released by the Data Security Council of India (DSCI) and Seqrite.
The report analyzed 37 crore malware detections across 84 lakh endpoints and found that cybercriminals are exploiting the government’s digital initiatives to their advantage. The lack of cyber awareness among the masses is making it easier for these criminals to operate.
Other popular methods used by cybercrooks include posing as representatives of the PM Kisan Yojana scheme (20%), bank representatives (16%), and adult theme baiting (10%). These criminals distribute malware files through WhatsApp, creating fake representations of public sector banks, electricity boards, and gas companies.
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2077948®=3&lang=1
The malware used by these fraudsters is called RewardSteal, which tricks users into downloading infected files by promising rewards. Once installed, these deceitful apps can steal private messages, sensitive data, and even financial information, leading to unauthorized access and identity theft.
Cybersecurity experts warn that cross-border threat groups and ransomware families are on the rise, targeting tier 2 and tier 3 cities like Surat, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. The report also highlights that the lower instances of detection in cities like Mumbai and Pune may indicate a lack of reporting mechanisms, allowing many attacks and breaches to go unreported.
While ransomware attacks continue to have a higher hit rate, their frequency has decreased compared to last year, indicating improved cyber resilience. However, the threat of cybercrime remains high, and it’s essential for individuals and businesses to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from these evolving threats.
