Overview of the Scam
In recent times, a new version of the sextortion email scam has emerged, targeting unsuspecting individuals with a subject line of “No Reply.” This variation of the scam is designed to bypass spam filters by using a different opening line. The email typically begins with the unsettling phrase, “Hello, my perverted friend,” which is a clear indication that it is a scam. The content of the email follows a familiar pattern, making threats and demanding payment in Bitcoin. Scammers continuously adapt their tactics to evade detection by email systems and reach a larger pool of potential victims.
How the Scam Works
Scammers acquire email addresses from various sources, including data breaches, and send out thousands of emails with alarming and vague threats. The intention is to instill fear and prompt recipients to take immediate action. The emails claim that the sender has hacked into the recipient’s devices, recorded compromising videos, and will release them unless a ransom is paid. However, these claims are baseless, and the scammers often lack any concrete evidence to support their threats.
One of the primary tactics scammers employ is the use of fear tactics. The email threatens to make explicit videos public, causing embarrassment and reputational damage to the victim. To add urgency, scammers set short deadlines, typically 48 hours, for payment to be made. They demand payment in Bitcoin, as it is difficult to trace, making it an ideal choice for their illicit activities.
It is important to note that engaging with the scammers or paying the ransom only perpetuates their criminal behavior. The threats are empty and designed to exploit victims’ fears. It is crucial to remain calm and take appropriate steps to protect oneself.
Recommended Anti-malware tool:
Try SpyHunter
SpyHunter is a powerful tool that is able to keep your Windows clean. It would automatically search out and delete all elements related to malware. It is not only the easiest way to eliminate malware but also the safest and most assuring one. The full version of SpyHunter costs $42 (you get 6 months of subscription). By clicking the button, you agree to EULA and Privacy Policy. Downloading will start automatically.
Try SpyHunter for Mac
SpyHunter for Mac fully removes all instances of newest viruses from Mac/MacBook and Safari. Besides, leaner can help to optimize MacOS and free up disk space. Compatible with all versions of MacOS. The free version of SpyHunter for Mac allows you, subject to a 48-hour waiting period, one remediation and removal for results found. The full version of SpyHunter costs $42 (you get 6 months of subscription). By clicking the button, you agree to EULA and Privacy Policy. Downloading will start automatically.
Protecting Yourself from the Scam
1. Stay Calm and Do Not Pay
Despite the alarming nature of the email, it is important to remain calm and not give in to the scammers’ demands. Remember that the threats are empty and the scammers do not have any incriminating videos of you. Paying the ransom only encourages their criminal activities and makes you a potential target for future scams.
2. Report the Email as Spam or Phishing
Forward the scam email to your email provider’s abuse department so they can take appropriate action. Reporting these scams disrupts the scammers’ operations and helps protect others from falling victim to their schemes.
3. Strengthen Your Security Measures
Ensure that your devices have up-to-date antivirus software installed. Run comprehensive scans to detect and remove any potential threats. It is also important to regularly update your operating system and software to address any vulnerabilities.
4. Change Your Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Reset your passwords for all online accounts, using strong and unique combinations. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
5. Ignore Further Communications
If the scammers send follow-up emails demanding payment, it is best to ignore them. Do not engage in any form of communication with the scammers, as it may lead to further attempts at manipulation.
Recommended Antispam tool:
Try MailWasher
Email security is the first line of defense against ransomware viruses. To do this, we recommend that you use MailWasher. MailWasher blocks ransomware viruses coming through spam and phishing, and automatically detects malicious attachments and URLs. In addition, malicious messages can be blocked even before the recipient opens them. Since the main source of the spread of ransomware viruses are infected emails, antispam significantly reduces the risk of a virus appearing on your computer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the “Hello My Perverted Friend” email scam real?
A: No, the email scam is a classic example of an extortion scam. The scammers send out threatening emails claiming to have compromising videos, but these claims are baseless. There is no truth to their threats.
Q: Should I pay the ransom demanded by the scammers?
A: No, it is strongly advised not to pay the ransom. Engaging with the scammers or paying the ransom only encourages their criminal activities. The threats are empty and meant to exploit your fears.
Q: How do scammers obtain email addresses for these scams?
A: Scammers acquire email addresses through various means, including purchasing stolen data, hacking into databases, and using email scraping tools. They target a large number of individuals in the hopes that some will fall for their scam.
Q: What should I do if I receive the “Hello My Perverted Friend” email?
A: Remain calm and do not engage with the sender. Report the email as spam or phishing to your email provider. Strengthen your security measures by updating your software, changing passwords, and enabling two-factor authentication.
Q: How can I protect myself from email scams?
A: Use strong and unique passwords for your accounts, enable two-factor authentication, and be cautious about sharing personal information online. Regularly update your security software and be vigilant of suspicious emails.
Conclusion
The “Hello My Perverted Friend” email scam is a deceptive scheme designed to exploit individuals’ fears and extort money. It is important to recognize the signs of this scam and take appropriate action to protect yourself. Do not engage with the scammers or pay the ransom demanded. Report the email to your email provider and strengthen your security measures. By remaining vigilant and informed, you can avoid falling victim to such scams and help others do the same.