Just Simple Web are today warning our clients to lookout for new scam emails which are linked to recent data breaches at some leading retail websites.
There are several different versions of a phishing scam email currently circulating, supposedly sent by an “international hacking group”, claiming to have private information belonging to you (for example private messages, photos from your phone, a webcam video). The emails are blackmail because the hacker is threatening to release private information to friends/family if money/bitcoin is not paid.
Please disregard any such emails, consider reporting the email to local police (ActionFraud in the UK), otherwise simply delete the message, NEVER reply to it, and NEVER make any payment to these scammers.
The latest scam email includes text like: “You still do not believe it? So, this is your password:”, and it might be an actual password used in the past. This is happening as a result of data breaches at several large companies (TicketMaster, LinkedIn, British Airways, GameStop) over the last few years. Hackers have been able to access usernames and sometimes passwords during these breaches. Their intention is to make you feel scared/guilty enough that you send money to them. Please never send money! Do not be fooled!
Our advice is:
– Fake emails are circulating using some details from recent data breaches
– Never reply to any spam/scam emails
– Consider reporting the message to local police
– NEVER pay any money/bitcoin to the scammer!
– Don’t open attachments or click on links on unexpected emails
– Always use very strong passwords and never use the same password for multiple websites
– Keep your computer’s operating system, email application and web browser software up to date
– Inform your work colleagues and family to lookout for similar scams
Please contact our support team if you are unsure about any message you have received.