Your password is emailed to you by a stranger who demands a ransom
A stranger claims to have hacked into your computer and then emails you your password. The threat seems very real! Because it is indeed your password.
This person then goes on to claim that they have compromising information about you. Then he asks you for a ransom in exchange for his silence. This ransom in the form of bitcoin is due within 48 hours.
A well-crafted scam
Don’t panic! Because on closer inspection, there is undoubtedly a detail that is wrong.
What about the password itself? Indeed, it is your password. Or rather, wouldn’t it be rather fair to say: That was your password?
Because, unless you haven’t changed it for years, the password announced in the email is no longer the one you use today.
Crooks have indeed seized a list of hacked passwords. They then send emails to everyone listed claiming to have their passwords.
Then they use classic scam techniques. Consider for example: Scaring the recipient, not giving him time to think, making him believe that there is no other way out. Pay no ransom!
Avoid this scam
In order to reduce the risks, follow the usual advice regarding passwords:
- Use a different password for each website or application
- Change password regularly
Below is an example of such emails.
Example of hacked password scam emails
Objet : Security Alert. You account has been hacked. Password *** must be need changed.
Hello! I’m a programmer who cracked your email account and device about half year ago. You entered a password on one of the insecure site you visited, and I catched it. Your password from xxx@xxx.com on moment of crack: ***
Of course you can will change your password, or already made it. But it doesn’t matter, my rat software update it every time. Please don’t try to contact me or find me, it is impossible, since I sent you an email from your email account.
Through your e-mail, I uploaded malicious code to your Operation System. I saved all of your contacts with friends, colleagues, relatives and a complete history of visits to the Internet resources.
Also I installed a rat software on your device and long tome spying for you. You are not my only victim, I usually lock devices and ask for a ransom. But I was struck by the sites of intimate content that you very often visit. I am in shock of your reach fantasies! Wow! I’ve never seen anything like this! I did not even know that SUCH content could be so exciting!
So, when you had fun on intime sites (you know what I mean!) I made screenshot with using my program from your camera of yours device. After that, I jointed them to the content of the currently viewed site. Will be funny when I send these photos to your contacts! And if your relatives see it?
BUT I’m sure you don’t want it. I definitely would not want to … I will not do this if you pay me a little amount. And I think $820 is a nice price for it! I accept only Bitcoins. My BTC wallet: *************************************
If you have difficulty with this – Ask Google « how to make a payment on a bitcoin wallet ». It’s easy. After receiving the above amount, all your data will be immediately removed automatically.
My virus will also will be destroy itself from your operating system. My Trojan have auto alert, after this email is looked, I will be know it! You have 2 days (48 hours) for make a payment. If this does not happen – all your contacts will get crazy shots with your dirty life!
And so that you do not obstruct me, your device will be locked (also after 48 hours) Do not take this frivolously! This is the last warning! Various security services or antiviruses won’t help you for sure (I have already collected all your data).
Here are the recommendations of a professional: Antiviruses do not help against modern malicious code. Just do not enter your passwords on unsafe sites! I hope you will be prudent. Bye.
