Introduction
In today’s digital age, email scams have become increasingly sophisticated, with cybercriminals using various tactics to deceive and extort unsuspecting victims. One such scam that has gained attention recently is the “I Have to Share Bad News With You” email scam. This scam preys on individuals’ fears by claiming that their devices have been hacked and personal information, including compromising videos, will be shared unless a ransom is paid. In this article, we will explore how to detect and protect yourself from falling victim to this email scam.
The “I Have to Share Bad News With You” email scam is a form of sextortion, where scammers attempt to trick recipients into thinking their devices have been compromised and threaten to expose personal data unless a ransom is paid. The email typically starts with a subject line suggesting that a payment has been made from the recipient’s account. The body of the email then goes on to claim that the sender has gained access to the recipient’s devices, including email accounts, and has installed a Trojan virus that allows them to monitor all activities.
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Text from I Have To Share Bad News With You Email Scam
Subject: Payment from your account.
Greetings!
I have to share bad news with you.
Approximately few months ago I have gained access to your devices, which you use for internet browsing.
After that, I have started tracking your internet activities.Here is the sequence of events:
Some time ago I have purchased access to email accounts from hackers (nowadays, it is quite simple to purchase such thing online).
Obviously, I have easily managed to log in to your email account (****@****.com).One week later, I have already installed Trojan virus to Operating Systems of all the devices that you use to access your email.
In fact, it was not really hard at all (since you were following the links from your inbox emails).
All ingenious is simple. =)This software provides me with access to all the controllers of your devices (e.g., your microphone, video camera and keyboard).
I have downloaded all your information, data, photos, web browsing history to my servers.
I have access to all your messengers, social networks, emails, chat history and contacts list.
My virus continuously refreshes the signatures (it is driver-based), and hence remains invisible for antivirus software.Likewise, I guess by now you understand why I have stayed undetected until this letter…
While gathering information about you, I have discovered that you are a big fan of adult websites.
You really love visiting porn websites and watching exciting videos, while enduring an enormous amount of pleasure.
Well, I have managed to record a number of your dirty scenes and montaged a few videos, which show the way you masturbate and reach orgasms.If you have doubts, I can make a few clicks of my mouse and all your videos will be shared to your friends, colleagues and relatives.
I have also no issue at all to make them available for public access.
I guess, you really don’t want that to happen, considering the specificity of the videos you like to watch, (you perfectly know what I mean) it will cause a true catastrophe for you.Let’s settle it this way:
You transfer $950 USD to me (in bitcoin equivalent according to the exchange rate at the moment of funds transfer), and once the transfer is received, I will delete all this dirty stuff right away.
After that we will forget about each other. I also promise to deactivate and delete all the harmful software from your devices. Trust me, I keep my word.This is a fair deal and the price is quite low, considering that I have been checking out your profile and traffic for some time by now.
In case, if you don’t know how to purchase and transfer the bitcoins – you can use any modern search engine.Here is my bitcoin wallet: 1L6XxPRuLJdr6JCqw8dwNUm1wFLisrGREL, 1LKWDMofCWVgDSUH3Qoui6LxJ2VSUtsDCE, 1xPr18gM8YKsaiUkGz9MgpjtwcBQcME2i, 16aqr3rXxCtxa8AK3ErftnBQLfzyyhjpXJ, 1Hjpu99iHc3oi55ZJKf6RHhKbwit8vEzTS
You have less than 48 hours from the moment you opened this email (precisely 2 days).
Things you need to avoid from doing:
*Do not reply me (I have created this email inside your inbox and generated the return address).
*Do not try to contact police and other security services. In addition, forget about telling this to you friends. If I discover that (as you can see, it is really not so hard, considering that I control all your systems) – your video will be shared to public right away.
*Don’t try to find me – it is absolutely pointless. All the cryptocurrency transactions are anonymous.
*Don’t try to reinstall the OS on your devices or throw them away. It is pointless as well, since all the videos have already been saved at remote servers.Things you don’t need to worry about:
*That I won’t be able to receive your funds transfer.
– Don’t worry, I will see it right away, once you complete the transfer, since I continuously track all your activities (my trojan virus has got a remote-control feature, something like TeamViewer).
*That I will share your videos anyway after you complete the funds transfer.
– Trust me, I have no point to continue creating troubles in your life. If I really wanted that, I would do it long time ago!Everything will be done in a fair manner!
One more thing… Don’t get caught in similar kind of situations anymore in future!
My advice – keep changing all your passwords on a frequent basis
How Do Scammers Gain Access?
To make their threats more convincing, scammers may include a password in the email, which they claim to have obtained from hacked websites. In reality, they have likely matched the password to a database of stolen passwords and sent out the scam email to numerous recipients. If you receive an email with your password included, it is crucial to take immediate action.
Don’t Panic and Do Not Pay the Ransom
If you have received the “I Have to Share Bad News With You” email, it’s essential not to panic. This email is a scam, and the claims made in it are false. It’s crucial not to pay the ransom demanded by the scammers. By paying, you not only lose your money but also encourage these cybercriminals to continue their phishing activities.
1. Delete the Email
The first step in protecting yourself from the “I Have to Share Bad News With You” email scam is to delete the email immediately. Do not engage with the scammers or respond to their threats. Remember, their primary goal is to instill fear and pressure you into paying the ransom.
2. Change Your Passwords
If the password included in the email is one that you still use, it is crucial to change it immediately. Use a strong, unique password for each of your online accounts. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Wherever possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your email and online accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a verification code, usually sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password.
4. Check for Data Breaches
To determine if your email or password has been compromised in a data breach, you can use reputable online tools like Have I Been Pwned. These tools will check if your credentials have been exposed in known data breaches and provide guidance on necessary actions.
5. Keep Your Software Updated
Regularly update the operating system and applications on your devices to ensure you have the latest security patches. Outdated software can have vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit.
6. Use Antivirus Software
Install and regularly update reliable antivirus software on your devices. This software can help detect and remove malware that may have been installed without your knowledge.
7. Educate Yourself and Others
Stay informed about the latest email scams and cybersecurity threats. Educate yourself and others about common phishing techniques and how to recognize and avoid them. Awareness is a powerful tool in protecting yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to scams.
8. Report the Scam
If you have received the “I Have to Share Bad News With You” email or any other scam emails, it’s crucial to report them. Contact your email provider and forward the suspicious email to their abuse department. You can also report the scam to your local authorities or the appropriate online fraud reporting agencies.
Conclusion
The “I Have to Share Bad News With You” email scam is just one example of the countless scams that cybercriminals employ to exploit individuals’ fears and extort money. By being informed, staying vigilant, and taking appropriate measures to protect yourself, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams. Remember to delete suspicious emails, change passwords regularly, enable two-factor authentication, keep your software updated, and report any scams you encounter. Together, we can combat email scams and create a safer online environment.