NEWS  Security  January 29, 2024  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

A recent study conducted by the Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI) has shed light on a dramatic surge in financial sextortion crimes, primarily orchestrated by a single cybercrime group. Identified as the Yahoo Boys, this loosely affiliated West African group has been disseminating instructional materials online, fueling an alarming escalation in such illicit activities.

The NCRI report underscores how the Yahoo Boys leverage popular platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Scribd to propagate manuals, instructional videos, and scripts tailored for aspiring cybercriminals. These materials predominantly target English-speaking youth on platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, and Wizz.

Over the past 18 months, the proliferation of these instructional resources has precipitated a staggering tenfold increase in financial sextortion crimes. Perpetrators, influenced by these materials, often infiltrate high schools, youth sports teams, and universities through fake accounts, subsequently employing social engineering tactics to coerce their victims.

Notably, the report highlights the utilization of generative artificial intelligence, exemplified by technologies like ChatGPT, in orchestrating large-scale sextortion operations. This alarming trend enables criminals to exploit AI-generated fake nude photos, compelling victims—often minors—to succumb to their demands.

The repercussions of this surge are profound, as evidenced by a 1,000% increase in financial sextortion incidents reported by the FBI and a staggering 7,200% rise in cases targeting children, as observed by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) from 2021 to 2022. Such alarming statistics underscore the urgent need to address this global crisis.

In response to these threats, NCRI advocates a proactive approach for potential victims, urging individuals to block perpetrators, report accounts, refrain from payment, cease contact, preserve evidence for law enforcement, and deactivate accounts where such interactions occur. Moreover, seeking support from trusted individuals and promptly involving law enforcement are crucial steps in combating these crimes effectively.

For parents, the NCRI emphasizes the importance of fostering open dialogues about online activities and educating themselves about the risks associated with popular platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and Wizz. Notably, heightened vigilance is recommended for platforms like Wizz, with NCRI advising deletion of accounts due to their inherent risks associated with communicating with strangers.

Furthermore, NCRI advocates for community-wide awareness campaigns, urging parents to engage with local schools, sports teams, and youth groups to educate and prevent instances of sextortion. Additionally, leveraging resources provided by organizations like the NCMEC and FBI can offer invaluable guidance in safeguarding against such threats.

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