Innocent Brits targeted by cruel scammers threatening to expose their internet history need not fear. We’ve started the fight back, tasking an expert with answering all the key questions you need to know.
Reports have surfaced of malicious crooks emailing unsuspecting victims with outrageous demands, insisting they pay to “save their reputation”. One email claims that the sender has accessed the recipient’s device, including their internet history and webcam.
Greg Hancell, head of fraud prevention at Lynx — not the deodorant but an AI-driven software company tackling fraud and financial crime – wants to make sure Daily Star readers aren’t at risk.
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How phishing scams are happening
Greg said scammers often obtain email addresses and personal information from data leaks and the dark web. They can also monitor individuals’ online activities, he explained.
“They then use techniques to make emails appear to come from the recipient’s email addresses,” he said.
“This is called email spoofing, leading the victim to believe their account has been compromised when it hasn’t.”
(Image: Getty Images)
One such email seen by the Daily Star warns victims that their “favourite genre” of raunchy movies could soon be exposed. “I captured some footage,” the message reads ominously. “With audio of course, of you while watching a highly controversial adult movie.”
The message then warns clips could be shared with family members, colleagues and contacts. It concludes with a chilling ultimatum: “I’ll just lay out a condition for you now. A little payment to save your reputation is a fair deal.”
Why people shouldn’t be scared
Believing the scammer has access to their email account, victims are more susceptible to the scam, Greg added.
“The fraudster then makes false claims that they have sensitive information, control of their devices and have been watching them through the camera,” he continued.
“This is to socially engineer the victim to be more susceptible to blackmail or downloading malware, when it is an empty threat to steal money. The victim is simply another email address in a spray and pray email outreach.”
The good news is that technology is empowering a fight back against scams. Companies are working hard to spot fraudulent payments, including blackmail of this type.
“Remember, you’re not alone,” Greg added. “Loads of people get these scam messages. In 2023, over 250,000 Brits fell for push payment scams.
“It’s not just you. Scammers send them to thousands of people. You’re not being singled out.”
Advice to stay safe
Fighting fraud isn’t easy, but there are three steps we can take. First, take a breath, Greg said.
“Scammers often rely on fear and urgency to pressure victims into complying with their demands,” he explained .”If an email or text makes you feel rushed or worried, stop. Take a deep breath. Ask yourself if it seems fishy. Trust your gut feeling.”
“Second, double-check everything. If you receive an email claiming to be from your own account, don’t click any links or give in to the blackmailers. Report it immediately by forwarding it to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).”
(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
“Share your concerns,” Greg went on. “If you’re worried about a message, talk to someone. Chat with a mate or do some research from credible sources. You don’t have to face this alone. There’s always help available.”
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