According to the New York State Attorney General’s Office, the primary target of criminal hackers is the elderly and those close to that age. The criminal scenario usually begins with an alarming message about an urgent hacking threat, in which the victim is forced to call a fake support number.
The next step is to convince the person to install “protection” software, but in reality this tool allows remote access to the computer. After gaining control, the attackers analyze financial records and identify the most attractive accounts for theft.
Subsequently, a second gang member enters the scene, posing as a bank employee. He claims that the customer’s account has been attacked by foreign hackers and convinces them to immediately transfer funds to a “protected” account. Most often, this occurs through transfers via cryptocurrency services or bank transactions, accompanied by strict instructions regarding maximum confidentiality.
To increase trust, another accomplice joins the case. He may pose as an government agency employee and even send fake letters or documents with department symbols. According to the Attorney General’s Office, these fake appeals completely confuse people and force them to follow the scammers’ instructions.
Letitia James said that criminals are targeting the money people have saved throughout their lives to pay for medical bills or everyday expenses. She added that criminals are ruthless and play on fear and trust.
The release from the Attorney General’s office offers specific advice to New Yorkers.
We recommend avoiding clicking on unknown links in text messages or emails, ignoring phone numbers listed in pop-ups, and never allowing strangers to access your computer. If you have any concerns about your bank account, call only the official number listed on your statement.
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