Law enforcement agencies across the country are warning about a surge in sextortion email scams demanding cryptocurrency payments.
At a Glance
- New York State Police warn of a nationwide automated sextortion scam.
- Scammers use email addresses to coerce payments through intimidation.
- Scammers claim to have personal information and may include a photo of the victim’s residence.
- Victims are advised to block the sender, delete the email, and report it to authorities.
Details of the Sextortion Scam
Law enforcement agencies, including the New York State Police, are sounding the alarm about a new wave of sextortion email scams. These threatening messages often claim to have compromising information obtained through data breaches. Scammers use intimidation tactics, asserting they’ve accessed victims’ search histories, passwords, and even installed spyware on their devices.
Scammers claim they have personal information and scare victims into believing they have embarrassing or compromising video footage. To drive their point home, they may include a photo of the victim’s home, likely obtained from online services like Google Maps. The emails typically start with the recipient’s full name and demand payments, often in Bitcoin, within a day or two.
Authorities warn public of "sextortion" scam https://t.co/xs236MlWgl
— WRBL News 3 (@wrblnews3) September 21, 2024
Scammers’ Tactics
The New York State Police reveals that scammers purchase email addresses and personal information illegally from the dark web. They then contact their targets, claiming to have installed software on their devices to track their internet use. Victims are often instructed to pay a ransom between $2,000 and $2,200 in Bitcoin to prevent the release of the alleged compromising content.
“NEW YORK STATE POLICE WARNS OF NATIONWIDE AUTOMATED SEXTORTION SCAMS … If you receive one of these emails, do not engage or share any personal information such as birthdates, phone numbers, social security numbers, or any financial information.”
Victims are urged not to respond, block the sender, delete the email, and report it through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov. Security experts stress the importance of not engaging with the sender or making any payments, as it only encourages further attempts.
Public Advisory: Cryptocurrency Email Scams on the Rise. The Malden Police Department warns against responding to suspicious emails demanding Bitcoin payments and encourages enhanced digital vigilance. Scammers are employing tactics involving false claims of hacking into victims'… pic.twitter.com/qPdV61nrRq
— Malden Police (@MaldenPolice) September 17, 2024
Preventive Measures
To avoid becoming a victim of sextortion, refrain from sending compromising images or videos. Never open email attachments from unknown sources and consider covering your webcam when not in use. Education and awareness are crucial in deterring these scams. Make sure to report any suspicious emails to the relevant authorities to help them track and tackle these malicious activities.
“Information Technology Services (ITS) has received reports from several members of the University community … It is crucial to know how to respond if you receive such an email.”
Remember to keep your personal information secure and stay vigilant online. If you receive an extortion email, avoid sharing any personal details or making payments under threat. Immediate reporting to law enforcement can aid in curbing these scams and protecting others from falling victim.
